Iga Swiatek is on the brink of history. If the World No. 2 can capture the Qatar Open title this week, she will become only the second player in the 21st century to win the same tournament four years in a row—a feat last achieved by Caroline Wozniacki at New Haven from 2008 to 2011.
But despite the opportunity to cement her name in WTA history, Swiatek remains laser-focused on the present, insisting that she won’t let expectations weigh her down.
Eight-Month Title Drought: A Rare Dry Spell for Swiatek
For a player who has dominated the tour in recent years, Swiatek’s current title drought is surprising. She hasn’t lifted a trophy since winning her fifth Grand Slam at the 2024 French Open—an eight-month stretch without a title that is highly uncharacteristic for the Polish star.
Still, she isn’t panicking.
🔹 “No. I know how tennis works. It doesn’t always depend on you if you win titles or not,” Swiatek said when asked if she feels pressure.
🔹 “You just have to put 100 percent effort and commitment, and you’ll get your chances if you play well and work hard.”
🔹 “For sure, it will be nice to win some tournaments, but it’s never helpful to think about it before. You have to focus on every match specifically and do it step by step.”
That step-by-step approach will be key as Swiatek looks to shake off recent struggles and reclaim the No. 1 ranking from Aryna Sabalenka.
Doha Draw: Swiatek vs. Sakkari in a Must-Watch Second-Round Clash
After receiving a first-round bye, Swiatek will face a familiar foe in Maria Sakkari in the second round.
✅ Head-to-Head: 3-3
✅ Recent Meetings: Swiatek has won all three matches since 2022
✅ Sakkari’s Path: Defeated Elena-Gabriela Ruse in Round 1
Swiatek’s dominance over Sakkari in recent years suggests she has the upper hand, but the Greek powerhouse is always dangerous on hard courts and will be eager to snap her own inconsistency struggles.
The Verdict: Can Swiatek End Her Title Drought and Make History?
🔥 A fourth straight Doha title would be an incredible milestone, but for Swiatek, the bigger picture is regaining momentum and returning to the top of the WTA rankings.
Can she reignite her winning form and end her eight-month wait for silverware?
The road to history starts now.