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Iga Swiatek - Yes to the Olympics, No to the Billie Jean King Cup

Iga Swiatek has set her priorities for the current season. While the Polish woman will forego the Billie Jean King Cup - formerly the Fed Cup - she is aiming for a medal at the Olympic Games in Tokyo.

by Nikolaus Fink
last edit: Mar 18, 2021, 09:38 pm

Iga Swiatek won the French Open in 2020
© Getty Images
Iga Swiatek will not play for Poland in the Billie Jean King Cup in 2021

In her still young career, Iga Swiatek is facing one of her career highlights so far this season: For the first time, the 19-year-old will serve at the Olympic Games and try to win a medal for her home country Poland.

"Of course the Olympic Games remain one of the most important goals this year and I will do my best in Tokyo to proudly represent my country," wrote the reigning French Open winner on Twitter. It is "always an honor and a privilege" to play for Poland, said Swiatek.

Nevertheless, the world number 16. not competing for their country in the Billie Jean King Cup. Poland missed the leap into this year's team competition finals , but will play a play-off game against Brazil on April 16 and 17. If the Polish women win this duel, they would fight for a place in the final round next year.

Swiatek could already support her teammates again in 2022, because she hopes to be able to play many matches at the Billie Jean King Cup in the future. However, this is not possible this year. "Since this first 'full' year is full of challenges and surprises, especially in times of COVID, I sometimes have to adapt to the circumstances," said Swiatek, explaining her decision not to participate in the team competition.

by Nikolaus Fink

Thursday
Mar 18, 2021, 09:37 pm
last edit: Mar 18, 2021, 09:38 pm