POLISH PRIDE: Iga Świątek Honored by President Andrzej Duda for Her Unmatched Global Tennis Dominance and Role as a National Icon Inspiring a New Generation of Athletes
In a moving ceremony held at the Presidential Palace in Warsaw, world No. 1 tennis star **Iga Świątek** was officially honored by **President Andrzej Duda** for her extraordinary achievements in global tennis and her role as a symbol of Polish pride and resilience. The 23-year-old champion, already a four-time Grand Slam winner, received the **Order of Polonia Restituta**, one of Poland’s highest civilian honors.
President Duda praised Świątek not only for her dominance on the court but also for the grace, humility, and intelligence she displays off it.
Iga Świątek is not only the best tennis player in the world—she is the pride of Poland,” the president said during his speech. “She represents our nation with dignity, determination, and class. Her journey is an inspiration for every young Polish boy and girl who dreams of greatness.
Świątek, who rose to international prominence after winning the 2020 French Open at just 19, has since become the dominant force in women’s tennis. Known for her powerful forehand, strategic mind, and unrelenting focus, she has not only maintained the No. 1 ranking for much of the last two years but has also racked up a series of historic milestones.
Most recently, Świątek defended her Roland Garros title and claimed multiple WTA 1000 tournaments, including Madrid and Rome, solidifying her status as the queen of clay. She also holds the longest win streak in women’s tennis since Serena Williams in 2013, and is the first Polish player in history to be ranked world No. 1.
Yet it’s her demeanor and values that seem to resonate just as much with her fans back home. Świątek has consistently used her platform to advocate for **mental health awareness**, **equality in sport**, and **support for Ukraine**, earning global respect.
In her acceptance speech, Świątek expressed deep gratitude and humility:
This is an incredible honor. I never imagined standing here, being recognized not only for playing tennis but for representing Poland on the world stage. Everything I’ve achieved has been with the support of my team, my family, and the incredible fans who cheer for me no matter where I play.
Świątek also dedicated the award to “every young athlete in Poland who trains in silence, dreams in private, and believes in something bigger.
The event was attended by members of Świątek’s family, representatives from the Polish Tennis Federation, fellow athletes, and dignitaries. After the ceremony, she took time to greet fans outside the palace, many of whom had waited for hours to catch a glimpse of their sporting hero.
Sports commentators have described Świątek’s impact as “transformational” for Polish tennis and sport in general. Youth tennis participation in Poland has surged since her Grand Slam breakthrough, and tennis academies across the country report record enrollment.
She has single-handedly changed the perception of tennis in Poland,” said Marta Domachowska, a former top-ranked Polish player. “She’s made it a sport of hope, not just prestige.
In addition to her on-court accomplishments, Świątek has also launched charitable initiatives, including scholarships for young athletes and partnerships with mental health organizations. Her calm demeanor and bookish charm — she often travels with novels and listens to classical music before matches — have made her a relatable and beloved figure worldwide.
As Świątek continues to dominate the tour and chase more Grand Slam titles, the ceremony in Warsaw served as a moment of national reflection — a celebration of talent, perseverance, and the unifying power of sport.
For millions in Poland and around the globe, Iga Świątek is not just a tennis champion. She is a symbol of what’s possible when talent meets hard work and when greatness is carried with grace.
