In the world of professional tennis, fashion has always played a significant role, and players often make headlines not only for their skills on the court but also for their style choices. This year’s WTA Finals in Cancun was no exception, and one player who grabbed everyone’s attention for her unique wardrobe choice was none other than the world No. 2, Iga Swiatek.
While Cancun and white parties are synonymous, Swiatek opted to go against the grain, and she did so with flair. During the season-ending event’s draw ceremony and pre-tournament photo shoot, Swiatek stood out in a long-sleeved red dress designed by Magda Butrym, a prominent Polish fashion designer. The dress featured stunning open-back detail and delicate floral applique, making Swiatek a visual standout at the event.
What made her choice even more remarkable was the fact that all the other Elite 8 players had opted for outfits in various shades of white, in keeping with the event’s tradition. The initial directive from the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) was for all participants to wear white. However, Swiatek, known for her independent spirit, was not one to conform to this rule without question.
In an interview, Swiatek candidly revealed that she had chosen her red dress months before the tournament, unaware of the dress code. When she received the email from the WTA instructing players to wear white, she and her team questioned the rule. To their surprise, the WTA quickly responded, granting her permission to wear her chosen attire.
“I think the rest of the girls… maybe they thought the rule was still on or something? But I’m not sure. I think it was honestly a full coincidence… I didn’t know I’m going to be the only one,” Swiatek explained.
In an attempt to gauge how many players were following the rule, Swiatek conducted an informal poll in the locker room the day before the draw ceremony. She was informed that only four players had decided to wear a white dress. However, when it came time for the tournament’s signature group photo, Swiatek found herself the only one not wearing white, with the other seven singles players adhering to the dress code. The doubles group photo, on the other hand, featured a more colorful palette.
Swiatek, true to her character, took the situation in stride. She used the opportunity to showcase her dress’s Polish designer, Magda Butrym, and its unique ‘Mexican vibe,’ thanks to its striking red color. She remarked,
“I didn’t want to make a big fuss about my dress or anything, but I’m happy that I picked this one because it’s from a Polish fashion designer. I loved it from the beginning, from the first time I saw it. And it’s also a little bit of a Mexican vibe, with the red. I think it was a nice choice! And it’s also the first time I wear something that’s so (fitted).”
In the end, Iga Swiatek’s choice to stand out in red not only highlighted her individuality but also shed light on a talented Polish designer. It goes to show that in the world of professional sports, fashion can be a platform for self-expression and a celebration of diverse styles, even at the most prestigious events like the WTA Finals.
Iga Swiatek in 2023
Now ranked no.2, Swiatek played her last match on the 1st of November when she overcame world no.3 Cori Gauff 6-0 7-5 in the round robin in Cancun (draw).
During this season the Pole has achieved a composed 65-11 record. The Pole has won 5 titles in 2023 in Doha, Stuttgart, French Open, Warsaw and Beijing. Iga got to the final in Dubai and Madrid.
Iga Swiatek |
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