Iga Swiatek confesses what she felt just before losing No. 1 spot to Aryna Sabalenka

• Tennis News
• WTA Tennis

Iga Swiatek shared that toward the end of her stint as the world No 1 spot she felt that "the whole world" was waiting on her to finally lose the top position. Swiatek, 22, replaced Ashleigh Barty at the top spot on April 4th, 2022.

Swiatek stayed there for the next 75 weeks before Aryna Sabalenka overtook the Pole at the top spot after this year's US Open. Since then, Swiatek has been ranked at No 2 in the world. "The No 1 ranking position can give you wings and add positive energy.

However, at the end of the period when I was a leader, I felt that the whole world was waiting for me to fall from this position. It wasn't easy. I know I did everything to stay ahead. I am aware that if I work well, I will quickly return to this position.

When you're No 2, it's a similar situation to most of your career. It's easier to concentrate to develop as a tennis player," Swiatek said.

How big of a lead Sabalenka has at the No 1 spot over Swiatek?

Sabalenka entered the WTA Finals with 8,425 ranking points, while Swiatek has 7,795 points.

Swiatek still has a shot at finishing the season as the world No 1 but it is evident that Sabalenka is currently in a better position to finish the year as the top-ranked player in the women's game. But since losing the top spot, Swiatek has been insisting that she is now focused on some other things, like improving her game.

Recently, Swiatek also said she would be better prepared if her second stint at the world No 1 spot ever happened again. Considering the fact Swiatek is 22 and will likely win a lot more before retiring, it is probably just a matter of time before the Pole again reaches the top spot. It remains to be seen if Swiatek can beat out Sabalenka for the Year-End No 1 spot at the WTA Finals.