Open about her work with sports psychologist Daria Abramowicz since her breakthrough win at Roland Garros in 2020, Swiatek first donated prize money to a mental health charity last year during the BNP Paribas Open in honor of World Mental Health Day, which is celebrated annually on Oct. 10.
Now World No.1, the 21-year-old made this year's commitment as part an emotional on-court runner-up speech in Ostrava, where she also took the time to thank the legions of fans who came from Poland to support her at the event.
While Swiatek has yet to announce what charity will receive the contribution, she says she has a few in mind, and expanded upon her reasonings for doing so in her post-match press conference.
"I really wanted to play well here to have a big amount of money to donate ... and I'm pretty happy that I could do that," Swiatek said.
"I really want to spread awareness and let people know that they can use the help if they need it, or help others if they have resources. I'm pretty happy to use my position that way."
Iga Swiatek continues to inspire pride in my Polish roots.
I honestly can't recall any player 21 or older who has used their platform for mental health awareness the way Iga has. She may be young, but Iga is wise beyond her years.
I admit I still have not seen the Ostrava final due to it being 3 hour epic, but I definitely plan on watching it because as everyone keeps saying it was the final of the year.
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