World No. 2 Iga Swiatek may be contemplating a significant schedule adjustment by potentially skipping the grass-court season following Roland Garros, according to recent reports. This strategic move would allow the Polish star to take an extended break before focusing on US Open preparations.
The decision reportedly hinges on Swiatek's performances in her upcoming tournaments in Rome and Paris. Following a disappointing 6-1, 6-1 defeat to Coco Gauff in the Madrid Masters semi-finals, Swiatek expressed her need for rest.
"For sure, I want to have some days off, especially because I didn't have any after Stuttgart," the four-time Roland Garros champion stated after her Madrid exit. "I'll for sure chill, but honestly, the coaches will do the schedule, so I'll see."
Despite her tremendous success on clay, Swiatek's grass court record has been comparatively modest. She holds a 68% win rate at Wimbledon – her lowest among all Grand Slams – with her best result being a quarterfinal appearance in 2023.
According to Statbet performance analytics, Swiatek's win-loss differential on grass courts is significantly lower than her impressive statistics on clay surfaces, which could influence this potential strategic decision.
This consideration comes despite her coach Wim Fissette's earlier comments about improving on faster surfaces being a priority for 2025. "For sure, our goal is to do better on the faster surfaces," Fissette said at the end of 2024.
He also noted a tactical adjustment that might help her grass performance: "I think on the fast surfaces sometimes she is trying to play the game of the fast players instead of keeping to her own game. She should stay true to herself on the faster surfaces."
Swiatek has not reached a tournament final since the 2024 Roland Garros, adding another factor to consider as her team weighs the potential benefits of an extended break against the opportunity to gain more experience on grass.
While no final decision has been announced, this potential schedule adjustment demonstrates the strategic planning that goes into managing a top player's season to maximize performance at priority tournaments.
