On Monday 8 April, Iga Świątek started her 98th week as world number 1. The Pole equalled the American Lindsay Davenport and is about to reach the symbolic threshold of 100 weeks on top of the charts. 

As former world number 1 Andy Roddick righty pointed out in his YouTube program “Served with Andy Roddick”, Iga Świątek is writing important pages in the history of her sport. In March, Iga clinched victory at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells for the second time, triumphing over Maria Sakkari in the final. This marked her second title of the season and her 19th overall.

What further enhances Świątek’s achievement is her consistent dominance across all playing surfaces. Whether it be the clay courts of Roland Garros or the grass courts of Wimbledon, Świątek’s adaptable playing style has enabled her to triumph over the top competitors in the sport over the last few years.

https://twitter.com/SwiatekOOC/status/1777005258314539101

Yet, what truly distinguishes Świątek is her mental resilience and unwavering drive to excel. Despite encountering formidable adversaries and the inherent pressures of being at the pinnacle, the Varsovian has maintained her composure and focus, approaching every match with equal fervour and determination.

https://twitter.com/OptaAce/status/1775829275545124996

The Polish champion entered the prestigious top 10 in the ranking of all-time players with most weeks as world number 1 last year. As of mid-April, Iga is virtually assured of remaining number 1 for the coming two months or so and reach 106 weeks. In other words, her spot is about 95% secured until the end of the French Open (mid-June).

From that moment on, the next target will become chasing the Belgian Justine Henin, and the American Ashleigh Barty, who held the top spot for 117 and 121 weeks respectively. 

Image: WTA

Author: Sébastien Meuwissen