Iga Swiatek’s criticism of the WTA: “I understand that we have to adapt to television needs, but I also asked the WTA for some statistics to understand whether the viewers actually watched these games, which started at 22:00 pursue.” I have not received any replies.”

Last week in Montreal was marked by frequent rains that forced tennis players to play several times on the same day. This situation has caused some controversy.
After some tennis players’ criticism of the management of the event and the WTA, it is now the turn of world No. 1, Iga Swiatekto express their dissatisfaction. In a press conference before the WTA 1000 in Cincinnati, the tennis player clearly explained her position.

Trouble in Montreal
“Of course the weather is unpredictable,” Swiatek said, “but maybe we should focus more on what’s really healthy for the players.” We have to compete every week, the season is extremely busy and traveled tirelessly. We never really have a break. It would make sense to put the focus on player welfare looking forward to next year when we have more compulsory tournaments and longer tournaments.”
Speaking on the direction of the event, he added: “I have come across situations that I would describe as unprofessional. I can’t explain exactly what the organization got wrong, but it seems that the priority here is mainly with the WTA. At the moment the lead looks a bit weak. I sincerely hope for a change because there have been many occasions this year where I haven’t been able to train the way I would like.”

past experiences
“During the European clay-court season, I played four games in both Rome and Madrid that ended after midnight. I understand that we have to adapt to TV needs, but I also asked the WTA for some statistics to understand if viewers are actually following these games that started at 10 p.m. I haven’t received any replies, but this data would help me understand if it makes sense to play this late.”

The case of Roland Garros
Swiatek then referred to the spectator habits during the Roland Garros tournament: “What I hear from the people around me is that they tend to follow the first game of the evening session.” But I’m not sure if they stay tuned for the second part. are you watching the game Do you like seeing her at this hour? It would be interesting to know.

With these words, Iga Swiatek makes an important appeal to the WTA and tournament organizers, underlining the importance of player welfare and the need for constructive dialogue between the various stakeholders.

Frederick DiMiele