Andy Roddick has praised Iga Swiatek’s improved play on grass, noting she appears significantly more comfortable on the surface during this year’s Wimbledon.
Ahead of the tournament, Roddick had accurately predicted an early exit for world No. 2 Coco Gauff. On his Served podcast, he remarked,
“I don’t think Coco makes it to the fourth round. Grass is her toughest surface. It just is.” He pointed out her limited success at Wimbledon, referencing that her best performance came as a teenager. “The forehand just doesn’t help her on this surface,” he added.
Roddick picked current world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, a three-time Grand Slam champion, to win her first Wimbledon title this year.
Swiatek, the No. 8 seed, has reached the fourth round with wins over Polina Kudermetova, Caty McNally, and Danielle Collins. The five-time major winner previously made her deepest run at Wimbledon in 2023, when she reached the quarterfinals.
Following her third-round victory, Roddick offered glowing commentary about the Polish star’s form. “Iga was lights out,” said the 2003 US Open champion. “She’s here to win. The matchup with Collins is tough on paper someone who hits hard and flat but Iga was on another level.”
He highlighted Swiatek’s improved serve, clocking in at 116–118 mph, and her confidence in staying aggressive without relying on running around her forehand.
“She was taking her backhand in stride, not shying away,” Roddick said. “She just looks more at ease on grass. In previous years, despite being dominant on clay, she seemed a bit out of sorts here.”
Now, however, Roddick believes something has clicked. “She may not be the best on this surface overall, but she’s found her footing.” He also applauded her ball striking and movement, noting she kept her shots flatter and more penetrating.
Swiatek is now set to take on world No. 22 Clara Tauson in the round of 16 at the All England Club.
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