According to Eurosport expert John McEnroe, Iga Swiatek’s unwillingness to play defensively and adapt her game style may have hindered her performance on hard courts, specifically at the US Open. The world No. 1 suffered a shocking defeat to Jessica Pegula in the quarter-finals at Flushing Meadows, putting on an error-strewn display as she exited the tournament she had previously won in 2022.
McEnroe, a seven-time major winner, shared his thoughts on Swiatek’s loss at the US Open, stating that her weaker defense is a key factor preventing her from success in crucial matches. Despite her stronghold on the world No. 1 ranking and consistency in the women’s game, Swiatek often struggles in Grand Slam events outside of the French Open.
Her early exits at the Australian Open and Wimbledon this year, sandwiched between her victory at Roland-Garros, were followed by a disappointing straight-sets loss to Pegula at the US Open. Swiatek’s aggressive style and powerful forehand typically dominate her opponents, but she has shown difficulty adjusting her game when facing challenges.
McEnroe commented, “She keeps trying to hit out, which is somewhat surprising for someone who prefers a slower surface.” Although Swiatek has won more titles on hard courts than on clay, she has proven to be vulnerable on the biggest stages of the major tournaments.
“I’m a little surprised she has not made that adjustment, but she is young. Hopefully, she can make that adjustment and improve a little at the net,” McEnroe added.
The US Open is known for its upsets and surprises, especially towards the end of a grueling season. This year, the addition of the Olympics to the already packed schedule and the transition between playing surfaces have been cited as contributing factors to unexpected results.
On the positive side, Swiatek’s loss at the US Open might offer her a much-needed break from the intense competition, allowing her to reflect and recharge after a demanding summer season. As the tennis calendar continues to expand and players face increasing demands, finding the balance between playing aggressively and adapting to different conditions will be crucial for Swiatek’s future success.