Swiatek sets sights on United Cup glory

Iga Swiatek is ready to battle for the United Cup, 12 months after Poland narrowly missed out to Germany in the final.

Poland lost the 2024 final 2-1. After Swiatek won her singles match, Hubert Hurkacz slipped to a defeat to Alexander Zverev before the pair lost in doubles.

For the 2025 edition, Swiatek and Hurkacz will lead the Polish squad, who are seeded second, for the third year running.

After suffering heartbreak in 2024, the world number two is ready to push for a first title at the tournament.

"Overall, I think my preparations were pretty great even though they were short because my season ended later than usual," she told Tennis Australia.

"I spent every day on court with 100% commitment and that was the most important thing.

"Last year we were so close. [We had] match points in Hubie's [Hurckacz's] match.

"So, for sure, this year we want to have another chance and, hopefully, go to the latest stages of the tournament to fight for winning it, because I think the Polish team is amazing. We have great experience already playing with each other.

"Last year's match brings a lot of emotions, but I still remember it as a positive one, even though we lost the last one. It was pretty entertaining for sure."

HUBIGA leading the charge #UnitedCup pic.twitter.com/GeHarqTa2T

— United Cup (@UnitedCupTennis) December 21, 2024

Poland have been drawn in a group with the Czech Republic and Norway, with their campaign beginning on December 30 against the latter.

The 23-year-old, who was named the MVP at last year's tournament, is already relishing the challenge ahead of her.

"It's the first tournament of the year so you never know what kind of tennis you will bring," added the five-time major winner.

"You have to spend a couple of days feeling out how you're going to feel on the court.

"I think they're both going to be tough matches, especially the one against the Czech Republic.

"With Karolina Muchova, I've always played pretty good battles, three setters usually. So, it's going to be pretty exciting. But for now, I'm just going step-by-step and focusing on the first battles here."

The United Cup will also act as preparation for Swiatek's Australian Open campaign, with that tournament beginning on January 12.