When Nick Kyrgios’ former coach opens his mouth, tennis fans tend to listen—if only to see what kind of no-filter bombshell he’s about to drop. And this time, it’s world No. 1 Iga Swiatek in the crosshairs. According to the Aussie tactician, the queen of clay isn’t invincible after all, and there’s a specific “Achilles heel” in her game that could come back to bite her at Roland Garros.
So, what’s the flaw in the otherwise ironclad armour of Swiatek? No, it’s not her topspin-heavy forehand or her movement—it’s her second serve. The coach noted that while Swiatek’s first serve has improved significantly, her second delivery remains “attackable,” especially under pressure. In short: give a big hitter a look at that second serve, and it could spell trouble.
It’s a spicy take, but not an unfounded one. Swiatek has looked imperious this clay season, but she’s also had patches of vulnerability when her serve gets tight. With the French Open looming, and a field full of fearless hitters waiting in the wings, even the smallest crack could open the door.
Still, this is Iga we’re talking about—a three-time Roland Garros champion who eats pressure for breakfast. If anyone can patch a weakness in time for Paris, it’s her.
But hey, that little “Achilles heel”? It just made the women’s draw a whole lot more interesting. Let the clay-court chaos begin.