Tennis: Play this sport involving racquets, a net, and a ball. - Iga Swiatek expresses disapproval over audience abuse at the French Open.
Iga Swiatek spoke out against Naomi Osaka's disappointing loss before directing her criticism towards the primarily French crowd at Court Philippe Chatrier. In a post-match interview, the 22-year-old mentioned, "It's quite challenging to maintain focus when someone shouts during the ball change or right before the return."
Earlier, other players, such as three-time Grand Slam winner Angelique Kerber, experienced disruptions from the audience during matches at the French Open. This was notably demonstrated when a spectator shouted during Kerber's first-round loss to Arantxa Rus at match point.
"I find it tough to accept that," said world number one Swiatek, elaborating, "It's significant for us. We commit our whole lives to improve and excel." The number one seed implored, "Let's still like each other," offering gratitude to the French fans, who sometimes target players they dislike, but she emphasized her love for playing there. The statement earned primarily applause from the audience.
Taxing encounter
The grueling match against Japanese rival Osaka, which Swiatek won 7-6 (7-1), 1-6, 7-5, was a hard-fought affair. Osaka (26) fought her way back from a 2-5 deficit in the third set and managed to preserve a match point as well. "Naomi played exceptional tennis and took significant risks," declared the three-time French Open champion: "I'm satisfied that she's back and playing well."
Osaka, who was last in the second round of a Grand Slam event since returning from her maternity leave, clearly presented herself as Swiatek's equal. Eurosport expert Boris Becker gushed, "She's back."
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