Iga Swiatek is gaining momentum on grass after a relatively slow start to the season, showing growing confidence and control that could make her a serious contender at Wimbledon. Her recent 6-2, 6-3 victory over Danielle Collins was a clear statement of intent as she reached the fourth round and prepared to face Clara Tauson, who recently upset a former Wimbledon champion.
Swiatek’s journey to this point has been shaped by the unexpected benefit of extra preparation time on grass. Unlike previous years where she arrived at the grass court season physically and mentally drained from grueling clay tournaments, this year she had the luxury of time to train, adjust, and adapt her game to a surface she has struggled to master. This shift allowed her to focus on improving key areas such as her movement and serve, which have traditionally been problematic on grass.
In her match against Collins, Swiatek was efficient and controlled, minimizing errors and maintaining pressure from the outset. She played with a clear plan: fast, aggressive, and bold. Her serve was a standout aspect, winning 86% of points on her first delivery, and she never lost her serve throughout the match. On the baseline, her forehand was a weapon, generating spin and pace that consistently put Collins on the defensive. Swiatek’s ability to absorb and redirect her opponent’s shots also reflected a marked improvement in her movement and defensive game on grass, enabling her to force errors and control rallies.
Despite her status as one of the most successful players of her generation, the 24-year-old has faced challenges in recent months. Her ranking and seeding at Wimbledon do not fully reflect her pedigree, partly due to a title drought since last year’s French Open and struggles with perfectionism. This internal battle has sometimes weighed heavily on her mental game, leading to negative thoughts and dips in confidence.
However, the French Open semi-final run last month seemed to mark a turning point. Swiatek appeared more relaxed and free-flowing on court, shedding the burden of overthinking and embracing a more instinctive style of play. Rather than taking a traditional rest period after Roland Garros, she immediately transitioned to grass preparation, reaching the final in Bad Homburg just before Wimbledon. That performance, despite a loss in the final, was a boost to her confidence and a sign that she was becoming more comfortable on grass.
Swiatek’s progress is significant given the challenges the grass surface poses to her game. Her heavy topspin forehand, preference for slower courts, and historically inconsistent serve have made grass an awkward surface. Yet, with time and focused preparation, she appears to be finding the rhythm and adapting her movement and tactics to the faster, lower-bouncing conditions.
Her evolving grass-court game, combined with her natural talent and mental resilience, suggests that Swiatek is entering this Wimbledon with renewed belief and the ability to compete seriously for the title. If she continues on this trajectory, the multiple Grand Slam champion could soon add grass to the surfaces she commands, making her even more formidable on the tour.
