Iga Swiatek today joins an elite group of only nine women who have held the No.1 ranking for 100 weeks or more in the 50-year history of the WTA Tour. The list includes legends like Steffi Graf, Martina Navratilova, Serena Williams, Chris Evert, Martina Hingis, Monica Seles, Ashleigh Barty, and Justine Henin.
The 22-year-old Swiatek first ascended to the top spot on April 4, 2022 and has since given up her position only to Aryna Sabalenka for a short while, from September 11, 2023 to November 6, 2023.
It was world No.1 Ashleigh Barty’s sudden retirement and her immediate removal from the rankings that left Swiatek just one match win away from becoming the WTA’s top-ranked player for the first time. In order to secure it, the Pole had to win her second-round match at the Miami Open and she achieved the feat in style, serving a bagel to Switzerland’s Viktorija Golubic in a 6-2 6-0 victory.
After learning that Swiatek would be the new No.1, Barty, the dominant force in women’s tennis for the previous three years, had this to say at the time: “There is no better person to become world No.1. She is incredible. I loved playing against her, practicing with her, and spending time with her team. She totally deserves it.” Now that Swiatek is spending an impressive 100th week at the top spot, Barty commented: “One-hundred weeks at No.1 is a huge achievement in any era. Congratulations to Iga. I’m so happy for her and have loved watching her hard work pay off.”
Legend Monica Seles congratulated Swiatek on her remarkable feat, highlighting the dedication and hard work that have propelled her to the pinnacle of the sport. “Keep inspiring us with your amazing talent on the court!” Seles concluded her message.
“It means you are not a flash in the pan, but consistent, focused, and hungry to maintain a high standard for a long period of time,” noted Christ Evert. “It means you don’t look back and settle for some high moments but are determined and committed to be in the present and work even harder.”
Swiatek’s journey to 100 weeks at No.1 has been marked by impressive performances and notable victories. At just 22 years and 326 days, the four-time Grand Slam champion is the fifth youngest player to reach this milestone, a testament to her early success and potential.
Looking ahead, Swiatek is poised to continue her reign as the world No.1. With a commanding lead in the rankings and a string of impressive performances, she is on track to achieve a rare three-peat as the year-end No.1, a feat achieved by only a select few in the history of women’s tennis. (source: WTA)
