It has been quite a drama-filled week for tennis fans. The 2024 season has got to an eventful start with top players in action at the United Cup in Australia. Recently, an incident at the tournament caught the eyebrows of the tennis world. It happened during Poland’s quarterfinal encounter against China. Iga Swiatek was up against Qinwen Zheng, and even before their match began, a controversial event took place.

The Polish star eventually went on to win the match in straight sets and hand her country victory in their last eight tie. However, her opponent wasn’t happy as the controversial moment took the shine out of the match.

What happened during the match of Iga Swiatek?

While the two players were warming up, the sun was shining brightly above them. As Swiatek practiced her service, she mistakenly hit the ball toward Zheng, who was busy receiving a ball from the ball kid. The ball hit Zheng, who had no time to react and move away.

Iga hitting a serve on Zheng during the warmup
byu/noapologiesman intennis

Swiatek’s Chinese opponent caught a disappointing look and wasn’t happy with the Polish star. Subsequently, Swiatek apologized and pointed out that she hit it unknowingly, and didn’t expect Zheng to come in her way. Although the latter wasn’t happy with Swiatek’s explanation, the two carried out the practice.

The video of the controversial moment went viral all over social media. Thousands of fans reacted to it, while some criticized Swiatek, some others came to her defense. However, the moment didn’t seem to be a distraction for the Polish star, who enjoyed an easy victory against Zheng.

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In a battle lasting just over an hour and a half, Swiatek got the better of her Chinese opponent in straight sets 6-2, 6-3. While Swiatek received some criticism for the controversial moment, it is less likely to affect her as she has a method to stay focused amidst such things. In the recent past, Swiatek had revealed how she dealt with online criticism.

Swiatek’s advice to avoid toxicities on social media

Sportspersons are often subjected to hatred on social media if results don’t go their way. Iga Swiatek is one such star, who has dealt with this unfortunate scenario. She once had given out firm advice to deal with such kinds of things.

Swiatek said, “During off-season, I spend much more time on social media. But during the season much less cause I want to avoid seeing something that might hurt me.” This simple plan helped Swiatek stay away from negativity and shine on the court.

Iga Swiatek will look to continue her winning run at the United Cup. Her country next faces the winner of the match between France and Norway. Will she go on and win the title for her country? Comment your thoughts below.

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