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Former world No. 1 Andy Roddick has offered insights into the contrasting pressures faced by Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka, highlighting how Swiatek grapples with the weight of expectations in a way that Sabalenka does not.
Speaking on his podcast, Served with Andy Roddick, the 2003 US Open champion acknowledged Swiatek’s impressive achievements, including 22 titles and five Grand Slam victories by age 23. However, he expressed concern about her ability to handle the mounting pressure, particularly following recent challenges such as a coaching change and a doping controversy involving a contaminated supplement.
Roddick noted that Swiatek’s emotional nature and sensitivity might make her more susceptible to the burdens of high expectations. He emphasized that while Swiatek’s focus on long-term improvement is commendable, the constant scrutiny and repeated questioning could take a toll on her mental resilience.
In contrast, Roddick praised Sabalenka’s mental toughness and her ability to maintain composure under pressure. Despite occasional emotional outbursts on court, Sabalenka’s resilience has been a key factor in her recent successes, including Grand Slam victories at the Australian Open and US Open in 2024
As the rivalry between Swiatek and Sabalenka continues to captivate tennis fans, Roddick’s observations shed light on the psychological dynamics at play. While both athletes possess exceptional talent, their differing approaches to handling expectations could influence their future performances on the world stage.
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Olaniyi Ayoola