Top-ranked Polish stars Hubert Hurkacz and Iga Swiatek share a lot in common, not least a high regard for 36-time ATP Masters 1000 champion Rafael Nadal.
Sitting down for an episode of Tennis United: Crosscourt, the ATP and WTA stars found common ground when it came to discussing Nadal, with whom Swiatek practised at Roland Garros this year.
“Of course I love his topspin and just how he plays on clay,” Swiatek said. “Clay is also my favourite surface. So when I was younger I wanted to be like him but I knew it’s kind of impossible because he’s so much stronger.
“I also like his attitude and how he behaves off-court. He’s trying to be a good example for other people.”
“Your topspin is pretty heavy as well,” Hurkacz replied. “It worked at the French Open I think even better than his! I think he is an amazing example, the way he works hard and his attitude on the match and also how he behaves. He always says hi to everyone, he’s super nice, a real inspiration.”
Hurkacz and Swiatek also discuss their diets, match-day routines, team structure and more.
The complete episode list:
• Episode 1: Relationships (Gael Monfils & Elina Svitolina)
• Episode 2: Coaching (Felix Auger-Aliassime & Jennifer Brady)
• Episode 3: Doubles (Bethanie Mattek-Sands & Jamie Murray)
• Episode 4: Parenthood (Fabio Fognini & Elena Vesnina)
• Episode 5: Travel (Grigor Dimitrov & Belinda Bencic )