Iga Świątek and the related doping scandal are again attracting considerable interest. The Pole is getting ready for her first Grand Slam tournament since the positive anti-doping test case came to light. No wonder then during the press conference before the start of the Australian Open, journalists often referred to it. Not only the person concerned, but even… Coco Gauff had to face questions about her.
Gauff speaks directly about what Świątek did. “I don't think so”
One of the journalists asked the American whether she had noticed a loss of self-confidence in Świątek after the doping scandal and the one-month suspension. – NO. I wouldn't say she lost her confidence. “I don't know her personally, but based on our interactions, I don't think what she did was intentional,” she admitted. She assured that she believed in the Polish woman's innocence.
However, there was some basis for the question. Since the case was revealed, Świątek has lost two matches with Gauff – during the WTA Finals and recently the United Cup. Previously, the 20-year-old was an extremely convenient opponent for her. The Pole won 11 out of 12 matches against her. – I don't think she's not confident. He's playing great tennis. In the match we played, I was just a little better that day, maybe I won a few more points. But it could have easily gone the other way. I think she's fine, Gauff assured.
How did the doping scandal affect Świątek? Gauff was asked a difficult question. “From what I see…”
In her opinion, this unpleasant situation did not affect the quality of Świątek's game. – I don't know her well enough to say if she feels anything about this. I can just say that from what I see, he's doing well. He is still number 2 in the world and plays amazing tennis. She will always play amazing tennis, so… Yes, I think it will be good,' she concluded.
Iga Świątek may face Coco Gauff only in the grand final at this year's Australian Open. Both women found themselves in separate halves of the ladder. The Pole's first opponent will be Katerina Siniakova. Gauff will play against her compatriot Sofia Kenin in the first round.