Iga Swiatek broke down in tears after her heartbreaking defeat to Zheng Qinwen in the semifinals of the 2024 Paris Olympics, leaving fans empathizing with the Pole. The top seed was ousted by the Chinese player in straight sets.
Swiatek was widely considered a favorite at the Olympics held at Roland Garros due to her impressive track record at the French Open.
The Pole, a three-time defending champion, entered the semifinals on a 25-match winning streak. Despite her sublime form, the World No. 1 was stunned by China’s Zheng Qinwen, losing 6-2, 7-5.
A clip on X later showed Iga Swiatek breaking down in tears during an interview. Her voice cracked as she spoke, and after taking a moment to compose herself, she attempted to continue but ultimately walked away.
Fans sympathized with the young Pole and reacted to the clip with concern. One fan remarked that it was unhealthy for the World No. 1 to break down regardless of the situation, saying,
“Can they get her a sports psychologist? This is unhealthy. She cries when she is challenged, cries when losing, and cries when winning.”
Can they get her a sports psychologist, this unhealthy, she cries when she is challenged, cries when losing and winning
Another fan said that they felt sad for Iga Swiatek and could only imagine what she was going through.
“I’m sad for her because I know how much it meant and I can only imagine what she feels rn.”
I’m sad for her because I know how much it meant and I can only imagine what she feels rn.
Here are some other reactions from the fans:
“ But to be an Oly medalist is still possible,tht chance cannot be missed. She has to,has to,has to pick herself up for the match. See the bigger picture. Call herself an Olympic medalist. Will win the surely some day. Cld have & shld hv been here itself bt chin up now champ!” a fan was optimistic.
This loss hurts but it will give her motivation for the rest of the season, WTA ain’t ready,” a fan opined.