A viral video on social media showed a tennis star hitting a ball kid during a heated match, leaving many shocked and sparking discussion.
Iga Swiatek Criticized for Losing Temper at Ball Kid
Iga Swiatek, the Polish tennis champion, is facing backlash on social media after a video of her heated reaction during a match at Indian Wells on March 14 went viral.
During her semifinal match against Mirra Andreeva, Swiatek showed visible frustration as she realized her chances of winning were slipping away.
Despite being on a 10-match winning streak at the tournament, she lost to the 17-year-old opponent with a score of 7-6 (7/1), 1-6, 6-3.
Iga Swiatek’s Controversial Action Triggers Boos from the Crowd
In the third set, Swiatek was seen complaining to the chair umpire about alleged movement from the ball kids behind her while she was preparing to receive Andreeva’s serve.
Shortly after, when a ball boy threw her a ball, Swiatek immediately turned and smashed it back in his direction.
The ball kid raised his arms in surrender as the ball zipped past him and into the crowd. The spectators were visibly displeased with Swiatek’s reaction, leading to a wave of boos from the stands.
Mixed Reactions on Social Media Over Iga Swiatek’s Behavior
As the video spread across social media. On social media, many criticized Swiatek’s behavior.
One user wrote, “Swiatek literally hit the ball back at a ball kid. Poor sportsmanship and dangerous play!”
However, some fans defended her. One supporter commented,
Although I wish this hadn’t happened, it’s refreshing to see Swiatek express emotions. She’s human, not a machine.”
Swiatek is not the only tennis star to face boos from the crowd.
Earlier this year, American player Danielle Collins was also jeered for making an inappropriate gesture toward the Australian Open audience.
With her victory over Swiatek, Mirra Andreeva became the youngest Indian Wells finalist since Kim Clijsters in 2001.