"I miss those days": Iga Swiatek reflects on underdog career phase

At the past two United Cups, Poland has come up one victory short of lifting the trophy.

Iga Swiatek and Hubert Hurkacz have been the heart and soul of their nation’s squad since the team competition's inception, and on Wednesday, the dynamic duo successfully brought Poland back to the knockout stage.

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After Hurkacz backed up his win over Alexander Zverev in his ATP return by defeating Tallon Griekspoor of the Netherlands to officially clinch their advancement as the Group F winner, Swiatek eased past Suzan Lamens in straight sets.

“I was more precise with my footwork. So I think it was an improvement comparing to the last match,” assessed the world No. 2.

“Hubi also played amazing, so I can come out on the court with big confidence because he already kind of put us in the quarterfinals. I could just play freely.”

The host nation awaits in the quarterfinals, with Alex de Minaur providing Hurkacz another Top 10 test in his first event since undergoing right knee surgery last July.

“He's probably close or the highest ranking that he ever had. He's really quick, moves around the court incredibly well,” said Hurkacz, who is 1-2 against De Minaur.

“So it's going to be a good challenge, especially with the Aussie crowd. It's going to be a lot of fun, and I'm excited for the match.”

Swiatek is projected to face Maya Joint, the 19-year-old Australian No. 1.

In 2025, Joint captured two WTA titles and climbed to No. 32 in the rankings as one of her tour's perennial newcomers. She sat for Australia’s opening tie against Norway due to illness, before falling in her 2026 debut to Barbora Krejcikova on Tuesday.

Looking back on being in a similar juncture of her career, Swiatek asserted that she never considered herself to be a star on the rise ahead of producing a massive breakout moment as the 2020 Roland Garros champion.

“I just (tried) to play my best as an underdog. Honestly, it was pretty fun. I miss those days,” the six-time major winner recalled. “I remember playing against Ash (Barty), I could feel how good she is when she was No. 1 and so solid. She really inspired me actually.

“Being an underdog and being this upcoming player with this freshness that you have, I think it's great. It's a moment where you improve your game the most.”

Swiatek believes Joint is “doing great” thus far. Commending her intelligence and humble nature, the 24-year-old nevertheless has business to take care in Sydney.

“I wish her all the best, but not in two days,” Swiatek said with a smile.