MY ACCOUNT
Iga Swiatek sent a message of support for Ukraine after beating Coco Gauff to regain the French Open title on Saturday.
The all-conquering world number one extended her winning run to a staggering 35 matches with a dominant 6-1 6-3 victory on Court Philippe-Chatrier.
Swiatek has been in a class of her own this year, winning six consecutive tournaments and doubling her tally of grand slam crowns two years after claiming her first at Roland Garros.
The Pole, who turned 21 on Tuesday, also showed her class when she offered her support for Ukraine amid the Russian invasion.
She said during her on-court interview: “Two years ago, winning this title was something amazing that I wouldn’t have expected ever. This time I worked hard to get here.
“Thank you all the fans for coming, all the Polish flags I can see over there. It’s good to have you and lean on you in my toughest moments. It’s always a great atmosphere here, and I always have extra motivation every time I come here.
“I also wanted to say something to Ukraine, to stay strong, because the war is still there. Since it started, I was hoping when I do the next [tournament] the situation will be better, but I will still have hope.”
Swiatek also praised 18-year-old American Gauff, who was outclassed in her first major final and reduced to tears after a straight-sets defeat in Paris.
She said to the teenager: “I want to congratulate you, because you are doing an amazing job. You are progressing all the time. You will find it, and you will be there, I am pretty sure of that.
“I want to thank my team – without you, I wouldn’t be here, I’m sure of that. I’m glad every piece has come together and we can do this. We deserve to be here. Thanks for your full support all the time, no matter what.
“Also to my dad, I wouldn’t be here without him, so I have to thank him for everything. Everyone who is in my box, thank you all.”
