‘Lots of excuses’ – Boris Becker weighs in on Iga Swiatek’s reaction to criticism of her behaviour
Boris Becker has claimed Iga Swiatek made “lots of excuses” in her response to the criticism she has received over a controversial incident at the Indian Wells Open.
During her semi-final loss to Mirra Andreeva in Indian Wells, Swiatek angrily hit a ball she was passed by a ball kid into the ground.
The ball missed the boy and bounced over a courtside wall, but the five-time Grand Slam was booed by the crowd and came under heavy fire from social media users.
Swiatek addressed the incident at length in a heartfelt social media post and argued she has been met with harsher criticism than many players who have expressed frustration in a similar manner.
“I see there’s been a lot of recent talk about changes in my on-court behaviour and emotions. Although I’m not comfortable explaining myself, it’s time I share my perspective to stop the speculation and baseless theories,” the 23-year-old Pole wrote on Instagram.
“First, about the incident during my last match. It’s true – I expressed frustration in a way I’m not proud of. My intention was never to aim the ball at anyone but merely to release my frustration by bouncing it on the ground.
“I immediately apologised to the ball boy, we made eye contact, and nodded to each other when I expressed regret that it happened near him.
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Iga Swiatek makes ‘deeply upset’ confession over No 1 ranking in heartfelt post
“I’ve seen many players bounce balls in frustration, and frankly, I didn’t expect such harsh judgments. Usually, I control such impulses, so half-jokingly I can say I lack experience in this and misjudged my aim in the heat of the moment.”
Swiatek continued: “Secondly, regarding emotional expression. The second half of last year was extremely challenging for me, especially due to the positive doping test and how circumstances completely beyond my control took away my chance to fight for the highest sporting goals at the end of the season.
“This forced me to rearrange certain things within myself.”
Becker weighed in on Swiatek’s statement in response to a tweet sharing the world No 2’s quotes.
The six-time major winner wrote: “Lots of excuses and looooong explanations… not sure anymore!
“Usually always supporting the players! I wish Iga to find her peace on the tennis court! She is a proven champion!”
Swiatek will next feature at the Miami Open, where she will face either Caroline Garcia or Anna Bondar in her opening match.
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