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Imago

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Imago

Iga Swiatek’s Miami Open collapse has cost more than just ranking points. Less than 24 hours after a 6‑1, 5‑7, 3‑6 loss to compatriot Magda Linette ended her 73‑match streak in opening rounds, the world No. 1 called time on her 17‑month partnership with coach Wim Fissette. The pair, who joined forces in late 2024 and celebrated titles on three surfaces, including a career‑defining Wimbledon, had endured a stuttering start to 2026. For Swiatek, this latest defeat was the signal that something had to change.

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Swiatek described the Miami Open as “challenging” but also said that she has learned a lot due to her early exit from the competition.

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“Sometimes life and sport bring moments like this… Miami was challenging for me. I feel disappointment, bitterness and responsibility for my performance on the court of course. I’ve also learned a lot of important lessons and I think that’s very human,” her Instagram post read.

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Reflecting on her time with Fissette, Iga Swiatek expressed her gratitude for his constant support and thanked him for helping her achieve one of her biggest dreams.

“That being said, after many months of working together with my coach @fissettewim I’ve decided to take a different path. It was an intense time full of challenges and many important experiences. I’m grateful for his support, experience, and everything we achieved together – including one of my biggest dreams in sport.”

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Written by

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Ansh Sharma

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Ansh Sharma is a US Sports Writer at EssentiallySports, blending a journalist’s curiosity with a decade-long passion for tennis. A journalism graduate, he first fell in love with the sport watching Rafael Nadal’s relentless drive and competitive spirit, qualities that continue to shape how he views the game. With Nadal’s retirement, Ansh now finds the same spark in fellow Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, whose rise represents a new era he follows closely. His sporting interests extend beyond the court, as a devoted Manchester United supporter and an F1 enthusiast with hopes of seeing Charles Leclerc capture his maiden world title. Away from the keyboard, Ansh enjoys unwinding with friends and taking time to recharge for the next big story.

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Firdows Matheen

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