Iga Swiatek defeated Coco Gauff in the women’s singles final to win the 2022 French Open on Saturday. 

In her victory speech, the Polish, who was trying hard to control her tears, asked a war-torn Ukraine to stay strong. 

Swiatek started by congratulating her opponent Gauff. “First if all I want to congratulate you, I see you are improving every week, you will find it and you will be there. I am pretty sure of that,” she said. 

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The 21-year-old, with the French Open triumph, extended her winning streak to 35. 

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“I want to thank my team. I am pretty happy as every piece has come together. I want to thank my dad for everything and my sister. Two years ago winning this was amazing. I feel i worked hard, and the pressure was big. I’d love to be back, and oh my god. It seems like I need some more experience of this,” she continued. 

Talking about Ukraine, Swiatek said, “I want to say something to Ukraine, to stay strong, as the war is still there.”

Swiatek had worn a ribbon in the colours of the Ukraine flag on her cap throughout the tournament.

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She had spoken about the situation in Ukraine after winning in Doha in February. 

“Since I made my speech in Doha (after winning the tournament in February) it had started and I was hoping when I do the next tournament speech the situation will be better but I will still have hope.”

“The war is still there and people are suffering. Many players have taken off the (Ukraine) ribbons and there is huge discussion about next tournaments and points. It’s not about that but the whole situation there and I want people to be aware,” Swiatek told broadcasters NBC.