“My Reaction Was Very Violent”: Iga Swiatek Opens Up About Emotional Response to Positive Doping Test
World No. 2 Iga Swiatek has candidly reflected on her intense emotional response to learning about her positive doping test for trimetazidine earlier this year. The Polish star, known for her mental fortitude on the court, revealed that she initially struggled to process the shocking news, describing her reaction as “very violent.”
A Devastating Moment
In an interview, Swiatek shared that she was overwhelmed when informed of the test results, which led to a one-match suspension.
“It was like my world shattered in an instant,” Swiatek admitted. “My reaction was very violent—I was crying, shouting, and questioning everything. I’ve worked so hard to build my career with integrity, and to have it come into question felt like a betrayal of everything I stand for.”
The Battle to Prove Her Innocence
Swiatek emphasized the mental toll the situation took on her as she fought to clear her name. The eventual ruling concluded that the substance had been ingested inadvertently, sparing her from a more severe penalty.
“I knew I had done nothing wrong, but proving that took a toll on me. There were sleepless nights and moments when I doubted whether people would believe me.”
The Importance of Support
Swiatek credited her team, particularly coach Wim Fisette, for helping her navigate the ordeal.
“My team became my lifeline. Wim [Fisette] was my rock. He constantly reminded me of my worth and pushed me to keep fighting for the truth. Without their support, I don’t think I would have had the strength to come out of this.”
A Renewed Focus
Now looking ahead to the 2025 season, Swiatek is determined to leave the scandal behind and return to the court stronger than ever.
“This experience has tested me in ways I never imagined, but it’s also made me more resilient. I’m ready to focus on what I love most—playing tennis and giving my best on the court.”
Swiatek has also expressed a desire to advocate for improved education around anti-doping rules to prevent other players from facing similar situations.
“I want to ensure no one else has to experience what I did. There’s so much we can do to educate players and create a system that’s fair and transparent.”
Moving Forward
With her name cleared and her resolve strengthened, Swiatek remains committed to reclaiming her dominance on the WTA Tour.
“This has been the hardest chapter of my life, but I’m closing it and moving forward. I’m more motivated than ever to make 2025 a year to remember.
