French Open 2022 champion Inga Swietek was mesmerized when she watched Bayern Munich’s top goalscorer and compatriot Robert Lewandowski stand to watch her Roland Garros final.
After a 6-1, 6-3 win over American teenager Coco Gauff in Saturday’s final, Sweetek shook hands with her compatriots and gave a quick hug as she went to the stands to celebrate with her team.
“I didn’t know (Lewandowski was in the stands), and I’m happy about it, because I’d be so stressed out,” Sweetek told reporters.
“Well, I’m glad he’s here, honestly. I don’t know if he’s like a huge tennis fan or not. But, yeah, I mean, wow.
“He’s been a top athlete in our country for so many years that it still seems hard to believe he came to see me. I hope he enjoys it. I hope he’s back. Yeah, I don’t know. Just overwhelmed.”
Swietec, who had dropped just one set in the entire tournament, was in tears after hearing the Polish national anthem after their first win.
Swietec didn’t miss a set during their 2020 win and lost just one set during this year’s Roland Garros campaign, extending their winning run to 35 matches.
It surpassed Serena Williams’ 34-match winning streak as she equaled Venus Williams with a win over Gough on Court Philippe Chattier on Saturday.
“It may sound very strange, but to do more than that 35th win and Serena, it’s something special,” Sweetek said.
“Because I’ve always wanted to… keep some kind of record. It’s been tough going after Serena’s career in tennis. Basically it affected me.
“Obviously there was a Grand Slam to win as well, but it was very special because I felt like I did something that no one has ever done, and maybe it’s going to be even more. Yeah, it was special.”