Tennis fans were heartbroken to see Iga Swiatek crying after her clash with Naomi Osaka at the 2024 French Open. Although the match went the World No. 1’s way, she was emotionally overwhelmed, seemingly due to the dramatic conclusion.
Swiatek was one point away from defeat when she faced former World No. 1 Osaka in the second round of the French Open. It's worth noting that the Pole, a three-time champion, has suffered just two losses at the tournament in her young career.
Iga Swiatek thus found herself in a rather unfamiliar territory when an unseeded Naomi Osaka challenged her to three sets and generated a match point opportunity when leading 5-3 in the decider.
Swiatek, though, produced a miraculous comeback to snatch a 7-6 (1), 1-6, 7-5 victory from the jaws of defeat. The Pole, who was visibly shaken after converting her first match point, burst into tears during the post-match recovery.
Tennis fans were crushed to see Iga Swiatek emotional and extended their support. The Pole recently admitted to feeling the weight of people's expectations. In tune with that, some fans said:
"That match and the people have put her through so much pressure and stress. glad that she has all the people she need to handle it with her. We love you iga! release it all and come back stronger!" one fan said on X.
"Just saw this and that’s why I always tell people to be kind. Athletes are a human beings just like you and no matter win or lose they face high pressure, personal issues and stress every day," another fan noted.
Many fans were happy to see the Pole let out her emotions before resetting for her third-round match at the French Open, where she will take on either Marie Bouzkova or Jana Fett.
"What kind of pressure is being put on her. And It's very good that she released her emotions," one fan chimed in.
"Much needed reaction after the load of stress from the match and all the pressure she carries on her shoulders. It’s ok," yet another fan said.
Several other fans rallied behind the Pole after she faced criticism from "haters" for showing emotion.
"Iga receiving hate for crying will always be very bizarre," one fan wrote.
"And if she cries when she loses - she is sore loser. If she cries when she wins - she is "weak" there is no room for us," another fan said.
Here are a few more reactions from tennis fans:
Iga Swiatek requested the French Open crowd to be considerate towards players after Naomi Osaka clash

Iga Swiatek was distracted by someone screaming in the crowd during a crucial moment in the match against Naomi Osaka. The Pole was visibly upset about the noise and politely addressed the incident during her on-court interview following the win.
"I have huge respect for you guys and I know we are playing for you, but sometimes under a lot of pressure when you scream something during the rally, it’s really hard to be focused," Iga Swiatek said.
The World No. 1 also reminded the crowd that a lot is at stake for players during such high-intensity clashes.
"I usually don’t bring this up because I want to be a player that’s in the zone and focused. But this is serious for us. We’re fighting our whole lives to be better and better. Sometimes it’s hard to accept that. The stakes are big. There’s a lot of money to win. Losing a few points may change a lot," she added.
This is not the first time the French Open crowd has courted controversy. Several players over the years and also during the ongoing edition, have spoken about dealing with hostile atmospheres.
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