Iga Swiatek is the latest tennis star to admit her love for the Winter Olympics, revealing the sports she’s enjoyed watching more than most.
The Polish player joins the likes of Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner to lend their support to the games, which have captured the imagination of the entire world over the last few weeks.
However, there are a few events that stand out for Swiatek.
She has now pointed them out, before issuing a message of support for Lindsey Vonn.
Iga Swiatek names the Winter Olympic sports she’s been watching
Speaking to Eurosport, Swiatek was enthusiastic when asked to discuss the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics.
And whilst she named three events as ones she had been watching, there was another which seemed to have taken her by surprise, by how much she enjoyed it.
The former world number one admitted: “I’m a couch fan. These [are] actually the Olympics I watch the most. Obviously, during the Summer Games, I take part in them myself, so I don’t have the time.
“I ended up watching a lot – mostly figure skating, speed skating and short track. Of course also Alpine skiing. And a bit of curling, which has suddenly become trendy, and it’s definitely fun to watch.”
Iga Swiatek reacts to Lindsey Vonn’s crash
Much of the anticipation surrounding this year’s Winter Olympics was spurred on by Vonn, who revealed she would be competing in the Milano Cortina games despite rupturing her ACL just before the event.
Sadly, it was not the fairytale return that many hoped for, with the American falling early on and actually breaking her leg.
Swiatek reacted to this devastating outcome with unsurprising sadness, admitting: “I’m happy she came back and wanted to finish this last season on her own terms.
“Unfortunately, it didn’t go the way she had dreamed of. But I think her attitude and the decision to compete despite an injury are admirable.
“There was a lot of discussion around it but everyone must remember that in such situations, a whole team makes the decision. Lindsey is incredibly experienced and knew what she was doing.
“The way she skied during training was amazing. Since I play a sport where nothing dangerous really happens, I admit it’s hard to relate – which makes me respect her even more.
“I’m full of admiration and I hope she recovers soon and reaches a level of fitness that is comfortable for her.”
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