Rafael Nadal is one of the most loved and followed players of all time. Entering the tour in 2001, the Spaniard has inspired innumberable young players in his successful career. Poland’s Iga Swiatek is one such player. The world number 9 has been a Nadal admirer for a long time. She is often heard talking about Rafa being her role model. 

On Wednesday, January 26th, Iga won her quarter-final match at the Australian Open 2022. Post-match, interacting with the media, Swiatek spoke about how she has been following Nadal’s matches at the Australian Open like a fan.

Iga opened up about how Nadal inspired her and what makes Rafael Nadal her role model. 

How has Rafa inspired the 20-year-old Polish

Iga Swiatek started the conversation by recalling her meeting with Rafael Nadal two days ago. She said, “I fist pumped Rafa like 2 days ago, so that was really inspiring.” She went on to tell the media how she has been following Nadal’s campaign closely. “I was watching every match except yesterday’s one. I watched fifth set.”

Just telling how she has been following the Spaniard wasn’t enough. She went on to define what makes her follow Nadal so closely. She expressed herself saying, “You can see that he’s just pure class and he’s a legend. It’s always fun to watch him. I just really enjoy that as not only as a tennis player but also as a fan, you know.”

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Just imagine the happiness of Iga if Nadal is ever to respond to her fandom in these quotes.

Iga Swiatek in the semi-finals of Australian Open 2022

The Polish player started off her 2022 campaign on a positive note. Reaching the Adelaide International 1 semifinals, Swiatek entered the Australian Open as one of the contenders for the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup (Women’s trophy). 

The world number 9 faced Kaia Kanepi in the quarter-finals. Even though she somehow managed to secure her win, Kanepi pushed Swiatek to her limits. Iga hit 35 winners and saved 7 breakpoints to finally win the 3-hour long match 4-6, 7-6, 6-3. 

WATCH: Emotional Iga Swiatek Tears up After Edging Past Sorana Cirstea at Australian Open 2022 R4

Dropping just 2 sets in the last 5 matches, Swiatek has swiftly managed to secure a place in the last 4. She will now face 27th seed Danielle Collins to book a spot in the final 2. 

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