2025 French Open Overview
The French Open kicked off just three days ago, yet we’ve already witnessed various iterations of Iga Świątek, who has dominated this tournament for the last three years.
Psychological Factors at Play
On Friday, Świątek’s tennis journey felt like a public psychology experiment. Every match and press conference reflected her mental state rather than just her tennis skills, which are nearly unmatched at their peak.
Emotional Moments
On Sunday, Świątek appeared as a devoted fan of Rafael Nadal, wearing a burnt-orange “Merci Rafa” T-shirt. She was visibly moved as 15,000 fans gathered to celebrate Nadal, a 14-time champion, at Court Philippe-Chatrier.
Mastering the Competition
Then, the familiar champion emerged: the four-time winner known for her relentless efficiency and unbeaten streak at the French Open since 2021. In her initial two matches, she skillfully combined her past and present game styles. Against Rebecca Šramková, she maintained composure to secure a 6-3, 6-3 victory, making smart decisions in high-pressure situations.
Adjustments Against Strong Opponents
In the next round, Emma Raducanu started off strong, pushing Świątek back. However, she resisted the urge to rush her shots. Instead, she smartly awaited Raducanu’s balls to drop, executing impressive shots and clinching a 6-1, 6-2 win, outperforming her prior match against Raducanu in Melbourne.
Focus on Mental Wellness
Świątek acknowledged a wealth of positive energy and readiness to compete, crediting her improved performance to mental preparation. With a French Open record of 36-2, she highlighted her recent mental challenges, including losing the top ranking and enduring an anti-doping investigation.
Diverse Influences in Performance
She emphasized the importance of mental health awareness and aims to balance her focus and energy. She’s drawn inspiration from Nadal, revealing how he maintained his composure even during difficult times. Reflecting on a past encounter with him, she realized the value of perspective in sports.
