Swiatek On Nadal Comparisons: 'Too Early' After French Open Triumphs

Iga Swiatek maintains that it is premature to compare her with Rafael Nadal, despite her impressive record at the French Open. The three-time champion, who lifted the Coupe Suzanne Lenglen in 2020, 2022, and 2023, began her quest for a third successive Roland Garros title with a dominant 6-1, 6-2 victory over Leolia Jeanjean on Monday.

Swiatek took just 61 minutes to secure her 15th consecutive win at the season's second major, becoming the first player to achieve such a streak since Justine Henin's run of 24 straight victories between 2005 and 2010. The Pole has now won 29 of her first 31 matches at the French Open, with only Chris Evert and Monica Seles (both 30) triumphing more often.

Her exploits on clay have drawn comparisons to those of 14-time men's singles champion Rafael Nadal. However, the world number one believes she still has a long way to go before such comparisons can be made. "I think it's too early [to be called Queen of clay]," she told Eurosport. "Comparing myself to [Nadal], I don't think I'm at that level yet. I still have many things to prove."

Swiatek added, "He's a great person and a great athlete; I think he's shown that for many, many years. I'm just at the beginning. I'll do my best to take some lessons from him on being a good person and a good player."

Expressing pride in her achievements, Swiatek noted that clay has always been her favourite surface. "I'm really proud of my achievements and this has always been my favourite surface," she said. "It feels like home here. Hopefully, I'm going to be here as long as possible."

Swiatek will face Naomi Osaka in a highly anticipated second-round showdown.