Iga Swiatek is going through a tough phase right before one of the biggest tournaments of the year. Her recent exit at the Madrid Open has raised serious questions about her form, fitness, and confidence.
During her third-round match against Ann Li, Swiatek had to retire while trailing 7-6(4), 2-6, 0-3 due to illness. The timing could not have been worse, with the French Open just weeks away.
This result is not just about one match. It reflects a larger struggle she has faced throughout the 2026 season. She has not reached a semifinal in recent tournaments, which is unusual for a player known for dominating on clay. Now, former players are openly questioning her level, and the conversation around her form is getting louder.
Sam Querrey and Steve Johnson question Iga Swiatek’s form and confidence before French Open
Speaking on the Nothing Major Podcast, Sam Querrey shared a clear and honest opinion about Swiatek’s current level. He pointed out that while she has been the best clay player over the past few years, things look very different right now.
“On Tennis Channel we were going over the top five clay courters right now and I didn’t have Iga in my top five. I got some pushback from it, because of her clay court results over the last five years. She has been the best over the last five years. But right now, she is not. I think confidence is the most important trait in tennis. She came into Madrid having not made a semi-final! She could not have been coming in very confident right now,” Querrey said.
Steve Johnson agreed and went even further. He admitted that this latest loss made him seriously worried about Swiatek’s situation.
“I’d put her in at five out of respect, but I don’t think she is a close five. I would put her on past results but I don’t think she is the fifth best player right now. I was not hitting the panic button until this week but we have officially hit the panic button now,” Johnson said.
After the match, Swiatek shared her thoughts on Instagram. She did not hide her frustration but also showed a calm mindset moving forward.
“What can I say? It was a real rough day. It stings not having full control over my performance or being in charge of every decision. Today is a bit better and I’ll take the next day or two to recover fully. Then we’ll push forward with more hard work. I’m pretty excited for the next one in Rome,” she wrote.
Swiatek will now play at the Italian Open in Rome from May 6 to May 18, 2026. It will be an important chance for her to find rhythm before the French Open.
