Sabalenka and Swiatek strengthen bond through TikTok dance

In 2025, the French Open revealed an eagerly anticipated semi-final match between Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek. This clash marked a significant moment in women's tennis, as the two top players had a history of rivalry for the World No. 1 position. Their relationship had been tense, but a breakthrough occurred during the WTA Finals in Riyadh, where they danced together for a TikTok video, leading to improved communication and practice sessions. The match, held at Roland Garros, was not only a contest for a Grand Slam title but also reflected the evolution of their relationship, previously characterized by aloofness and competition. Sabalenka approached the encounter with a record of reaching semi-finals in nine of her last ten Grand Slam appearances. In contrast, Swiatek's recent form had been somewhat inconsistent, slipping in the rankings after not winning a title since her French Open victory the previous year. Nonetheless, Swiatek maintained a formidable winning streak in Paris, highlighting her status as a strong competitor. This match held the potential to elevate the tournament's prestige and showcased the importance of personal dynamics in high-stakes sports, further drawing attention to the scheduling challenges for women's matches at major events.