Iga Świątek, the world number one in women’s tennis, is looking to make a strong statement as the 2025 tennis season kicks off with the United Cup. The Polish star, who has dominated the women’s tour in recent years, is eager for redemption after coming so close to victory in last year’s edition of the tournament. Świątek and her team were eliminated in the semifinals of the United Cup 2024, despite strong performances that had them on the verge of clinching the title. Reflecting on their narrow exit, the 22-year-old revealed her determination to go one step further this time around and capture the title that has thus far eluded her.
The United Cup, an innovative mixed-gender event that pits nations against one another, was introduced as part of the WTA and ATP calendar to bring a unique blend of individual and team competition to the start of the tennis season. Last year’s edition saw Świątek and her Polish team show incredible promise, but despite winning several thrilling matches and showcasing the high level of tennis that has made Świątek one of the most feared competitors in the sport, they were ultimately knocked out in the semifinals. For Świątek, who has been so accustomed to winning Grand Slam titles and dominating the WTA Tour, this was a bitter disappointment. The feeling of being so close to a major victory without being able to secure the title was tough to swallow.
In a recent interview, Świątek opened up about her experience in the 2024 United Cup and her goals for this year’s competition. She acknowledged the disappointment of last year but emphasized how close her team came to capturing the coveted trophy. “We were so close last year,” she said, a hint of frustration still present in her voice. “We had some amazing moments and great performances, but in the end, it wasn’t enough. We were just one step away from the final, and that’s always a difficult thing to process.” Świątek, who has won multiple Grand Slam titles, noted that the United Cup holds a special place in her heart because of the team dynamic it offers. Unlike the individualistic nature of the WTA Tour, the United Cup allows players to represent their countries and bond with their teammates, which adds a different level of emotion to the competition.
The defeat in the semifinals has clearly fueled Świątek’s desire for redemption this year. In 2025, she will once again be leading Poland’s charge, and her aim is to take the team all the way to the title. “I’ve learned a lot from last year’s experience,” Świątek explained. “It wasn’t easy to lose, especially after coming so close. But the lessons from that tournament have made me even more motivated to do better this year. I want to make sure we are mentally and physically prepared for every match so we can lift the trophy at the end.”
While the loss in 2024 was certainly tough for Świątek, it has not diminished her confidence. If anything, it has only strengthened her resolve. As a player who has consistently been ranked at the top of the women’s game, Świątek has learned to deal with disappointment and setbacks with a level of maturity beyond her years. Her ability to bounce back from such defeats has been one of the defining features of her career, and she is determined to apply the lessons from last year’s close call in order to achieve her ultimate goal this time around.
Looking back on the 2024 United Cup, Świątek was full of praise for the level of competition and the atmosphere of the event. Despite their semifinal exit, Poland performed admirably, with Świątek delivering some exceptional individual results in singles, and the team showing impressive synergy on the court. “We had some great matches, and I think everyone played with a lot of heart. It was an amazing tournament, and I’m proud of how we performed overall,” Świątek said. “But, of course, we want more this year. We want to go all the way.”
One of the standout aspects of Świątek’s game has been her consistency and dominance in major tournaments, including Grand Slams, and she’s carrying that same approach into the United Cup. While the individual accolades and victories are always important to her, Świątek has made it clear that the team aspect of the United Cup is something she truly values. “It’s a different feeling to represent your country, to be part of something bigger than just yourself. It’s incredibly motivating,” she said. “The energy of playing alongside teammates is something you can’t replicate. It’s special.”
As Poland’s leader on the court, Świątek understands the pressure that comes with such responsibility, but she has never shied away from it. Her ability to handle pressure has been well documented, and she often thrives in high-stakes moments, making her an ideal candidate to captain her country to victory. She emphasized how the team dynamic in the United Cup was key to their success last year and will be critical again this year. “It’s important that we are all on the same page as a team. Chemistry on and off the court matters,” she explained. “We have to support each other and communicate well. That’s the key to going all the way.”
Looking ahead to the 2025 competition, Świątek is confident that the lessons learned from the previous year’s disappointment will serve them well. “We are not going to underestimate any opponent. Every team in the United Cup is tough, and we know we’ll have to be at our best to win. But we are ready. We are motivated, and we want to show that we can finish what we started last year.”
Despite facing fierce competition from the likes of other top-ranked players such as Aryna Sabalenka, Coco Gauff, and Jessica Pegula, Świątek is not one to back down from a challenge. She has consistently proved herself to be one of the most mentally tough and talented players on the tour, and there is little doubt that she will bring that same intensity to the United Cup in 2025. “I know the competition is going to be tough, but I feel good physically and mentally heading into this tournament. We have a great team, and we’re all excited to get started,” she added with a confident smile.
For Świątek, the 2025 United Cup represents more than just a chance for redemption—it’s an opportunity to solidify her position as one of the best players in the world and to inspire a new generation of players from Poland. With her combination of talent, passion, and leadership, there’s no question that she will give everything she has to achieve her goal of winning the tournament and securing Poland’s place in tennis history.
With the United Cup just around the corner, Iga Świątek is ready to make a statement. After coming so close last year, she is determined to lead Poland to victory and prove that she can rise to the occasion when it matters most. Fans around the world will be watching closely to see if Świątek can turn her desire for redemption into reality and add another major achievement to her already incredible career.