Iga Swiatek in good spirits as she attends Miami Heats game after withdrawing from Miami Open 2023

Iga Swiatek appeared to be in high spirits as she attended the Miami Heat vs New York Knicks game, despite having withdrawn from the 2023 Miami Open.

Swiatek, the defending champion of the Miami Open, announced her withdrawal from the Miami tournament as well as the upcoming Billie Jean King Cup scheduled for April. The withdrawals mean that Swiatek is currently facing the daunting challenge of defending the next six consecutive titles that she earned during the first half of 2022.

Seemingly unfazed by the pressure, Swiatek was seen attending the Miami Heat vs New York Knicks game at the FTX Arena on March 22. The World No. 1 took to social media to share a picture of herself enjoying an ice cream during the game.

"When life gives you lemons, make lemonade (or buy ice cream). I had great time last night. Go @MiamiHEAT," Swiatek tweeted.

Victoria Azarenka hits back at Iga Swiatek over comments on Russia-Ukraine war

Iga Swiatek at the the 2023 Miami Open press conference

Victoria Azarenka has disagreed with Iga Swiatek about Ukrainian players not being helped as much as possible.

Ukrainian players have been vocal about the ongoing conflict in their country. During the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, Swiatek expressed her concern for their well-being and called for greater support. Swiatek also mentioned that the plight of the Ukranians was being overshadowed by discussions about whether players from Russia and Belarus should take part in tournaments.

"I feel there should be done a little bit more to kind of help Ukrainian players, because I feel like the more -- like, everything we discuss in tennis is more about Belarusian and Russian players if they should be allowed, like what's going on with them," Swiatek said.

Swiatek also stated that the efforts taken to help the Ukrainian players were not enough.

"I'll try to kind of help with that as well, because I guess with everything that is happening, the actions that were taken up to this point were, I don't think they were enough," the Pole said.

However, Azarenka disagreed with Swiatek's statements and suggested that the 21-year-old should consider the efforts made to assist Ukrainian players before making any comments on the matter.

"Obviously, there are certain players that have different feelings and behaviours. Overall, I don’t necessarily share the same opinion as Iga does. I would encourage her to look at the things that have been done before she makes comments," Azarenka said.