As the 2025 Qatar Open kicked off, Iga Swiatek was asked about her fiercest rival, Aryna Sabalenka—and her response was both candid and revealing. The World No. 1 didn’t just acknowledge their growing rivalry; she doubled down on why it’s vital for the WTA Tour.
Swiatek and Sabalenka have delivered some of the most breathtaking tennis battles in recent years, including their unforgettable 2024 Madrid Open final, where Swiatek saved three match points to claim victory. It was a match that many now consider one of the greatest in WTA history—a clash of sheer power, resilience, and high-octane shot-making that left fans in awe.
But beyond the epic showdowns, their rivalry has taken on a different tone from some of tennis’ more combative past feuds. Sabalenka, known for her fiery on-court persona, has made a conscious effort to foster mutual respect, even roping Swiatek into a lighthearted TikTok challenge at the 2024 WTA Finals.
Now, as Swiatek gears up to defend her title in Doha, she reflected on their unique dynamic—and why it’s so crucial for women’s tennis.
Swiatek on Sabalenka: “We Push Each Other, and That’s What WTA Needed”
When asked about Sabalenka before her first match in Qatar, Swiatek initially joked about trying to stay diplomatic—but then delivered a powerful statement on why their rivalry is helping shape the sport.
“What do I think about Aryna? That’s a tough one (laughs). I’ll be diplomatic. No, I’m kidding. It’s nice to have such a great athlete as an opponent. We’re both pushing each other, and we’re both creating some great entertainment when we play against each other.”
Swiatek went even further, highlighting that their fierce battles have injected new energy into the WTA.
“I think we are something WTA has been kind of missing for a while because we have this great rivalry, and the fans are excited every time they see both of us.”
Her point is hard to argue. Women’s tennis has often struggled to maintain long-term rivalries, with injuries and inconsistency disrupting potential clashes at the top. But Swiatek vs. Sabalenka is different—it’s a battle of two dominant forces, each elevating the other to new heights.
“I think it’s great that we play tennis so well and just push each other, and that’s really helpful, for sure, in anybody’s career to have an opponent like that.”
The Teams Behind the Champions: Swiatek’s Praise for Sabalenka’s Camp
Beyond the on-court battles, Swiatek also credited the importance of their respective teams in shaping their success. The Polish star, who recently started working with coach Wim Fissette, has been embracing new insights into her game. And when discussing Sabalenka’s rise, she had high praise for her rival’s support system.
“Well, I think Aryna’s team is one of the most professional I’ve seen on tour. They’re kinda taking care of everything, similar to me, I would say.”
The grind of the WTA season is relentless. With grueling travel schedules, mental challenges, and physical demands, having a rock-solid team is often the difference between success and burnout. Swiatek made it clear that she and Sabalenka are thriving not just because of their talent—but because of the expertise surrounding them.
“Because of the people we have around, we both can really progress and become great athletes. Without them, for sure, it would be much tougher because we need professional people and people with knowledge to guide us sometimes and show us what is right or wrong.”
Swiatek Eyes History in Doha
If their rivalry is a defining force on the WTA Tour, Swiatek isn’t letting that distract her from dominance in Qatar. The defending champion wasted no time in her opening match, steamrolling Maria Sakkari in straight sets to begin her quest for a fourth consecutive title in Doha.
With her confidence high and her game clicking, Swiatek looks ready to extend her reign. But with Sabalenka always lurking in the background, one question remains—how long before we get the next chapter of this electric rivalry?
One thing’s for sure: The WTA has been waiting for a rivalry like this, and Swiatek vs. Sabalenka is only just getting started.
