It was only a question of time before the stars would align for Iga Swiatek at the Mutua Madrid Open, and it eventually happened on 4 May 2024, when the Pole completed her collection of big clay titles, conquering the Caja Magica in a memorable final against Aryna Sabalenka. There are probably no other players on the WTA Tour better-prepared for success on clay than Swiatek, a player who is defining an era in women’s tennis. In this interview she talks to us about her experience in Madrid before kicking off her campaign for the crown at this year’s event.

What was the most special thing about your Mutua Madrid Open title in 2024?

Well, for sure I will remember two things especially. First, that this was the title I was missing to have a complete set of titles on clay. Second, I think we played with Aryna one of the best if not the best match of the season. I loved the energy, level, and celebration.

You won an unforgettable final in the third-set tiebreak, 7-6(7), what did you feel when Sabalenka’s backhand went out and you sealed the win?

It was the best match I played last year. Especially on clay courts. I think we played at a very high level then. I felt good on the court and we played a fierce, intense match. I think it was the best final in my whole career. It’s hard to describe what I felt after the last point. It was a mixture of joy, satisfaction, relief and disbelief. But it was for sure one of the most memorable moments in my career so far.

Which moment would you say was the turning point on your road to the trophy last year?

I think losing the first set against Beatriz. I really needed to step up and raise my level. I was proud that I adjusted well and did that.

After the 2023 final, did you have even more desire to win in Madrid and complete your set of big titles on clay?

I always go out on court to win. And I know that it’s always a tough battle with Aryna. Certainly the result of the 2023 final, like every match with her, motivates us both to keep improving and developing. We propel each other so our tennis rises to an even higher level. I appreciate it very much, because thanks to this it is always interesting when we are playing.

Swiatek vs Sabalenka has become a ‘classic’ final at the Mutua Madrid Open, after two consecutive stunning championship matches. Will we see a third in 2025?

Hopefully, nevertheless this is sport, and we both have to win a few matches, probably also tough ones, to get to the final. I will do my best and I’m sure that Aryna will also.

Do you think this great rivalry is contributing to increasing interest in the WTA Tour? Both because of the matches for the biggest titles and the battle to be No. 1?

Looking at this year so far, I think we have a lot of great players who have reached their best level of tennis, and also new names have emerged who are fearlessly fighting for the top stakes. That for sure is contributing to interest in the WTA Tour and that is a very positive thing.

You already have experience of winning a tournament two years in a row, and this year you’ll have the chance to do so in Madrid for the first time. What are the keys to a successful title defence?

Not to play to defend but to conquer. That’s all I can say.

Only Simona Halep (2016-17) and Serena Williams (2012-13) have won consecutive titles in the Caja Magica. Will Swiatek be the third woman to do it?

It’s for sure something that I don’t even think about and I can’t predict the future. The title or score will always be the result of hard work and executing a plan while using all the available resources and tools.

What would you say are your main weapons for the conditions in Madrid?

I would say my spin and movement.

What do you like most about playing in Madrid?

I’d say I really like the venue, for sure. There’s something about the Caja Magica that makes the game very enjoyable. Of course the clay itself, as it’s still my favourite surface. I like how my spin works here too. Oh, and the food!

How would you say the fans experience tennis in Spain? Can you feel the warmth from the stands?

Spaniards are extremely expressive. They are distinguished by their temperament, friendliness, cheerfulness, kindness. And so are the fans. In addition, tennis is a very important sport for them. I associate the tournament in Madrid with packed stands. I admire the Spanish school of tennis, in which footwork plays a key role, an extremely important element for me as well.

Is there anything you have particularly enjoyed about this tournament since you first played it in 2021?

I think I always remember battles. First against Ash in 2021 – playing her was the ultimate challenge and then these two finals against Aryna.

Last year you were at the Clasico in the Bernabeu, how was that experience?

Amazing I would say! I’m always happy to watch other sports (especially live, which is a rare occasion), and here additionally it was the match between Barcelona and Real – El Clasico! Seeing Robert Lewandowski in action was also something special.

What are your goals when you return to Madrid this year?

To execute my game, give 100% every minute on court and of course to win a match. One day at a time.