Iga Świątek, the world’s top-ranked tennis player, has confirmed her participation in the upcoming United Cup, a mixed-team tournament set to begin later this year in Australia. After taking a break from competition, Świątek is gearing up for a busy end to 2024, which will also include the WTA Finals, Billie Jean King Cup, and the World Tennis League.
Świątek’s Return to Competitive Tennis
Świątek recently took a hiatus from the tour due to personal reasons and fatigue, opting out of tournaments in Wuhan, Beijing, and Seoul. As a result, Aryna Sabalenka is expected to overtake her in the WTA rankings. However, Świątek is now back on track, with her sights set on the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia, starting November 2. Following that, she will participate in two major team events—Billie Jean King Cup and the World Tennis League.
United Cup Format and Poland’s Prospects
Świątek’s decision to join the United Cup comes as Poland aims to repeat its strong performance from last year when they reached the final but lost to Germany. This year’s tournament will feature 18 nations in a group stage format, with each group consisting of three countries. Teams will compete in men’s and women’s singles, as well as mixed doubles. The winners of each group and two top second-place teams will advance to the knockout rounds, offering the chance to earn up to 500 WTA and ATP ranking points, along with a share of the $10 million prize pool.
Polish Team Line-Up and Tournament Schedule
Alongside Świątek, Poland’s roster for the United Cup includes talented players like Hubert Hurkacz, Maja Chwalińska, and Alicja Rosolska. The tournament will be held from December 27 to January 5 in Perth and Sydney, just ahead of the Australian Open, which begins on January 12. With Świątek having recently parted ways with her coach Tomasz Wiktorowski, it remains to be seen who will guide her through the first Grand Slam event of the year.
Polish tennis fans will be eagerly watching as Świątek looks to help her country secure victory in the United Cup and continue her impressive career.
