Caroline Wozniacki says commentating on Iga Swiatek’s matches over the years gave her a good chance to get a strong feel of how the Pole plays but acknowledges that watching tennis is a completely different thing than actually playing.
On Tuesday, former world No. 1 Wozniacki defeated three-time Grand Slam champion Angelique Kerber 6-4 6-2 to reach the Indian Wells quarterfinal. For 33-year-old Wozniacki – who was working in tennis broadcast before returning to tennis in August – this will be her first quarterfinal since she ended her three-and-half-year retirement.
When Wozniacki and 22-year-old Swiatek meet on Wednesday, it will be their second meeting. Previously, the two met in 2019, with Swiatek upsetting 1-6 6-3 6-4 in Toronto. At the time, Wozniacki was one of the best players in the world while Swiatek was just starting.
Ahead of facing Swiatek, Wozniacki was asked if there was something particular from their lone match and also to address her expectations for their Indian Wells match.
“No, that’s a long time ago, and I think it’s not really going to be the same match either,” Wozniacki said.
“I think I have obviously commentated some of her matches. I know how she’s playing. Obviously she’s playing good tennis, playing powerfully. I practiced with her as well a few times after I have come back, during the US Open as well. I know how she plays, but it’s one thing knowing how she plays and also playing against her in a full match.
“I know that I have to play my best tennis to compete against her, and that’s what I hope to do.”
