“She’s going to win a minimum of two tournaments on clay”: Mats Wilander backs Iga Swiatek for French Open glory despite recent struggles

Mats Wilander Backs Iga Swiatek for French Open Success Despite Early-Season Struggles

Tennis legend Mats Wilander has expressed confidence in Iga Swiatek’s ability to dominate the upcoming clay-court season, predicting that she will win at least two titles and remain the favorite for French Open glory.

Swiatek’s 2025 Title Drought

The world No. 2 has yet to claim a title this year despite several deep runs, reaching the semifinals at the Australian Open, Qatar Open, and Indian Wells, while suffering quarterfinal exits in Miami and Dubai. In three of those tournaments, she lost to the eventual champion.

Wilander believes her struggles stem from opponents better understanding her game plan, making it harder for her to dominate on faster surfaces.

“Players have figured out what they need to do against Iga Swiatek on fast courts—whether it’s grass, hard courts, or even slow hard courts,” Wilander explained.

Swiatek Remains the Queen of Clay

Despite these challenges, Swiatek has cemented herself as the top clay-court player on the WTA Tour, winning four of the last five French Open titles. Wilander expects her to adapt and thrive on clay, where her heavy topspin forehand becomes a major weapon.

“I believe Iga will adjust because the slower clay bounces allow her to generate more topspin on her forehand,” he said. “I’m eager to see if she makes overnight improvements once the clay season begins.”

Wilander’s Bold Prediction for Roland Garros

The Swedish great is confident Swiatek will dominate the clay swing, predicting she will reach at least the French Open semifinals and win two or more tournaments on the surface.

“My guess? She wins the French Open again,” Wilander stated.

Swiatek’s next test comes at the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix in Stuttgart on April 14—a tournament she previously won in 2022 and 2023.