Iga Świątek Described as a ‘Robot’ as Former World No. 1 Warns She ‘Could Fall Apart’
Iga Świątek has often been lauded for her consistency, mental toughness, and methodical approach to tennis, qualities that have helped her rise to the top of the WTA rankings and secure four Grand Slam titles at the age of just 23. However, this intense focus and seemingly robotic precision have sparked a warning from former world No. 1 Justine Henin, who suggests that Świątek may be at risk of burnout if she doesn’t strike a balance between her perfectionism and adaptability.
The Polish star, who dominated much of the 2022 and 2023 seasons, has faced mounting pressure to maintain her spot at the summit of women’s tennis, especially in the face of rising challengers like Aryna Sabalenka and Coco Gauff. While her meticulous game has made her a formidable opponent, Henin’s comments raise a critical question: Is Świątek’s calculated approach sustainable, or is it sowing the seeds of future struggles?
A Reputation for Precision
Świątek’s game is often described as a well-oiled machine. Her incredible footwork, precise shot selection, and mental focus have earned her comparisons to a “robot” by some observers. This description isn’t necessarily derogatory—it highlights her reliability on the court and her ability to execute her game plan under pressure.
Henin, however, believes this robotic consistency could also be a double-edged sword. “Iga is so meticulous and systematic in her approach to tennis. She rarely shows vulnerability, which is an incredible strength but could also be her Achilles’ heel,” Henin said during a recent interview.
Świątek’s reliance on structure and preparation has undoubtedly contributed to her success. However, Henin points out that the very traits that make her dominant could lead to challenges if she doesn’t allow herself room for flexibility.
The Emotional Toll of Perfectionism
Świątek has openly discussed her struggles with the emotional demands of professional tennis. Her quest for perfection has, at times, been a source of stress, particularly during moments when results don’t align with her meticulous standards. After losing her No. 1 ranking to Aryna Sabalenka earlier this year, Świątek admitted to feeling the weight of expectations, both internal and external.
“Perfectionism can be exhausting,” Henin remarked. “It’s not easy to maintain such high standards without feeling drained. At some point, something has to give, and that’s when cracks can appear.”
Henin’s concerns aren’t without precedent. In recent years, players like Naomi Osaka and Ashleigh Barty have stepped away from the game to focus on their mental health, citing the relentless nature of professional tennis. For Świątek, who has been in the spotlight since her breakthrough French Open win in 2020, the pressure to continuously deliver could take a similar toll.
The Challenges of Adapting
Another aspect of Henin’s critique centers on Świątek’s adaptability. While her methodical style works well against most opponents, the dynamic nature of tennis requires players to adjust quickly to different playing conditions, surfaces, and opponents.
Henin pointed out that Świątek struggled at times during the 2024 season when faced with opponents who disrupted her rhythm. For instance, players like Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula have managed to capitalize on Świątek’s predictability by employing aggressive tactics and varying their shot selection.
“Świątek’s game is incredibly polished, but she needs to show she can adapt under pressure,” Henin said. “The ability to improvise is what separates great players from legends. If she can develop this aspect of her game, she’ll be unstoppable.”
Coping with Rising Rivals
Świątek’s dominance has been increasingly challenged by a new wave of talent. Coco Gauff, who defeated Świątek in the 2024 WTA Finals, has emerged as a serious contender, combining athleticism with tactical intelligence. Aryna Sabalenka, meanwhile, has used her power game to disrupt Świątek’s rhythm on multiple occasions.
For Świątek, the presence of these rivals has created a new dynamic in the women’s game. No longer is she the clear favorite in every tournament; instead, she must contend with a more competitive field.
Henin believes this increased competition could actually benefit Świątek in the long run. “It’s good for her to face these challenges,” Henin said. “Adversity forces you to grow. If Świątek can embrace the competition and learn from these experiences, she’ll come out stronger.”
Finding Balance
Despite Henin’s warnings, there’s reason to believe Świątek is capable of evolving. The Polish star has already shown a willingness to address her mental and emotional well-being, often working with sports psychologists to maintain a healthy perspective.
Świątek’s team has also been proactive in managing her schedule to prevent burnout, opting for strategic breaks between tournaments. These efforts indicate that she is aware of the risks associated with overexertion and is taking steps to ensure her longevity in the sport.
However, Henin emphasizes that finding balance is an ongoing process. “It’s not just about physical rest; it’s about giving yourself permission to make mistakes and learn from them,” she said. “Tennis is a marathon, not a sprint. Świątek has to pace herself if she wants to sustain her success.”
The Road Ahead
As the 2025 season looms, Świątek faces the dual challenge of defending her titles and refining her game. While her current approach has brought her immense success, the need for adaptability and emotional resilience will be critical as the competition intensifies.
Henin’s comments serve as a reminder that even the most accomplished players must remain flexible and open to growth. For Świątek, this means embracing the unpredictability of tennis and finding joy in the journey, rather than solely focusing on the destination.
If she can strike this balance, Świątek has the potential to transcend her current achievements and cement her legacy as one of the all-time greats. For now, fans can only watch and hope that the “robot” will continue to evolve into a player who is as dynamic and multifaceted as the game itself.