Even in defeat, Iga Swiatek is making headlines. In a stunning upset at the Wuhan Open, Polish star Jasmine Paolini stunned Swiatek in straight sets, ending her run earlier than expected.
But this loss may not be what defines her right now — it’s what she’s done after that’s got the tennis world buzzing.
💰 Surpassing a Legend — Even When Short of the Title
Despite the upset, Swiatek still walked away with a monumental milestone: she has now overtaken Venus Williams to become the second-highest career prize money earner in WTA history, trailing only Serena Williams.
She added over $83,000 just from reaching the quarters in Wuhan — enough to inch past Venus’s long-held total of $42.867 million to Swiatek’s new total of $42.945 million.
Even in loss, she’s advancing her legacy.
🌍 Team Poland’s Banner Bearer
Looking ahead, Swiatek has already confirmed her role at Poland’s first revealed team for the 2026 United Cup, teaming up with compatriot Hubert Hurkacz.
She’s played multiple editions of the United Cup already, and now aims to lead the nation again — showing that her ambitions extend well beyond individual glory.
🎾 A Rollercoaster Season — But Not Without Wins
This year hasn’t been smooth sailing. Swiatek’s elimination in Wuhan surprised many, especially after earlier strong performances. But even through turbulence, she’s collected big wins — including a dramatic title at the 2025 Korea Open, where she rallied from a set down for victory.
And, of course, her crowning moment came at Wimbledon: she blasted Amanda Anisimova 6-0, 6-0 in the final — the first “double bagel” in a Wimbledon women’s final in over a century.
