Tennis star Iga Swiatek laments ‘constant judgement’ after facing harsh criticism for nearly hitting ball boy

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Former World No. 1 Iga Swiatek posted a lengthy explanation on social media this week after the tennis pro faced heavy criticism for nearly hitting a ball boy out of frustration during her semifinal loss at the BNP Paribas Open tennis tournament in Indian Wells, California, last week. 

During the third set of the match, a ball boy tossed a ball in Swiatek’s direction, which she then immediately swatted back at him – just missing him. 

Iga Swiatek hits to Mirra Andreeva during the WTA semifinals at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California, on Friday, March 14, 2025. (IMAGN)

The ball hit the ground and deflected into the crowd behind the ball boy, prompting a harsh reaction from fans in the stands. That criticism continued on social media in the days that followed the Friday match. 

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On Monday, Swiatek responded with a lengthy post explaining the situation and also calling out the double standard of fans. 

"I see there's been a lot of recent talk about changes in my on-court behavior and emotions. Although I'm not comfortable explaining myself, it's time I share my perspective to stop the speculation and baseless theories," her post began.

"First, about the incident during my last match. It's true - I expressed frustration in a way I'm not proud of. My intention was never to aim the ball at anyone but merely to release my frustration by bouncing it on the ground. I immediately apologized to the ball boy, we made eye contact, and nodded to each other when I expressed regret that it happened near him."

Swiatek said she has seen many players "bounce balls in frustration" and was