World No. 2 Iga Swiatek's Australian Open 2025 campaign has come to a shocking end after she fell to her opponent, the experienced Madison Keys of the United States, in the semi-finals. The two faced each other on Thursday, where Swiatek was anticipated to win the match and meet two-time defending champion Aryana Sabalenka in the finals. However, the 29-year-old American prodigy had different plans as she reigned supreme in the game and took home the victory, securing her berth in the second Grand Slam final of her career.
Even though Keys emerged victorious, American fans were displeased with how the match unfolded, particularly accusing Swiatek of employing unsportsmanlike tactics. Many fans expressed their frustration and anger over the Pole's strategies, with some strongly criticizing her approach.
Iga Swiatek garners scrutiny from American fans
The match started with Swiatek winning the first set by 7-5, but she looked in no position to win the second set as Keys capitalized on Pole's mistakes and won the second set by 6-1. It became a nail-biting encounter in the third set when Swiatek looked set to win the game as she was leading with 6-5 and subsequently held match point, but to her surprise, Keys saved that match point, ultimately winning the set and match by 7-6 (10-8).
In a recent turn of events, a fan shared a clip from the Australian Open semifinal between Iga Swiatek and Madison Keys on their X account (formerly Twitter). In the video, Swiatek is seen changing and inspecting her racket during the second set, leaving Keys waiting to serve. The clip has since drawn attention, with fans criticizing the five-time Grand Slam champion’s behavior and calling her out on the platform.
Sharing the video, the fan questioned:
"Iga Swiatek dirty tactics against Madison Keys. Why did umpire not give her a time violation warning ?"
Replying to the tweet another fan added:
"disgusting player, disgusting person."
Another fan chimed in with:
"This why I don’t respect her."
While one other fan commented:
"This is taking me the fuck out even more so now that she lost. Get outtaaaa hereeeee."
This isn’t the first time Swiatek has faced criticism from fans. Earlier this month, during the United Cup final, she drew backlash for the way she shook hands with Coco Gauff after losing the match.