Iga Swiatek Graces the Cover of Elle Poland after Madrid Open Victory
Elle Poland
Game. Set. Match.
After winning the Mutua Madrid Open on Saturday, Iga Swiatek, the WTA world number one, landed the front cover of Elle Poland for the second time, proving to be on a serious winning streak.
In a tight three-set thriller against Aryna Sabalenka, ranked number one and number two respectively, Swiatek emerged victorious in the Spanish capital, winning 7-5, 4-6, 7-6 (7).
Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka after their final match/ Susana Vera
Just a few days after the victory, Elle Poland featured the Polish tennis star Iga Swiatek on its June cover in a stunning black dress with a high neck and slicked-back hair. The latest cover is a perfect match for Elle's "sport and chic issue" theme. And it couldn't have been more fitting to feature Swiatek, who is a much-loved female athlete in her home country. The cover is sure to catch the eye of anyone who appreciates a little sports-ish in their life.
Swiatek's transformation from initial unease to newfound confidence in front of the camera is a testament to her growth and resilience. At first, the idea of posing for the camera made her slightly uncomfortable, but she found it easier when she approached it from a movement point of view, similar to her movements on the tennis court. During her pre-tournament press conference in Rome, she reflected, "It was a really fun experience," and "It's nice to feel so glamorous" in a different environment.
In the magazine, she discusses how her perspective has changed since she first appeared on the cover in January 2022.
““Two years ago, I wanted to prove that I was in a good place; I didn’t feel like a fully experienced competitor,” she said. “I’m no longer just a tennis player.””
Swiatek's influence extends far beyond the tennis court, showing she's not "just a tennis player." She has blazed a trail in the sports and fashion industry, recently becoming the first female athlete to partner with cosmetics company Lancome. Joining the ranks of actresses Zendaya and Julia Roberts as brand ambassadors, she expressed her gratitude for the collaboration, stating that it allows her to embrace her femininity, a side she doesn't often get to showcase as a tennis player who primarily wears sports clothes.
Her other brand deals include Porsche, Rolex, and Visa, among others. In December 2023, Forbes named her the year's highest-earning female athlete.
The magazine has recognized Swiatek, the talented tennis player, as "the voice of a generation." She is not only making waves on the tennis court but also inspiring young women from all walks of life. Her influence extends beyond the world of tennis, and she is becoming a role model for young women everywhere.