WARSAW, Poland — In a season defined by grit and a historic maiden Wimbledon title, World No. 2 Iga Swiatek is proving that her most enduring legacy may be written off the court. This week at the Hotel Verte in Warsaw, the six-time Grand Slam champion officially introduced the inaugural recipients of the Iga Swiatek Foundation Scholarship, marking a transformative moment for Polish youth sports.
Launched in July 2025, the eponymous foundation was built on a singular vision: to create “safe spaces” where young athletes can pursue their passions while building healthy, sustainable professional futures. The pilot program, which drew over 200 applicants, concluded with five exceptional talents being awarded grants totaling nearly half a million Polish zloty (approximately $140,000).
A Holistic Blueprint for Success
Unlike traditional athletic grants that focus solely on financial relief, Swiatek’s program offers a 12-month holistic support system. Each winner gains direct access to the experts who have fueled Swiatek’s own rise to the top of the WTA rankings. This “inner circle” includes world-renowned sports psychologist Daria Abramowicz, physiotherapist Maciej Ryszczuk, and a team of legal and personal branding advisors.
“I wanted to create a program that really helps talented athletes on their way,” Swiatek said during the ceremony. “I wanted it to be not only financial support, but also access to knowledge. We want to help them consciously build their careers.”
Meet the Inaugural Class
The five scholarship winners represent a diverse cross-section of Olympic disciplines, each selected for their international potential and clarity of vision:
* Ignacy Andrzejczak: The U-20 national champion in the 110m hurdles.
* Wiktor Chmurski: A standout member of the Polish junior national swim team specializing in butterfly.
* Liwia Kubin: A decorated multiple-time medalist in both junior and senior speed skating.
* Jan Pyla: A rising star on Poland’s junior national golf team.
* Oliwia Sybicka: A 16-year-old phenom currently ranked as the top U-16 tennis player in Poland.
For Sybicka, in particular, the mentorship from a player who revolutionized modern tennis is invaluable. As she navigates the transition from junior to professional ranks, having Swiatek’s team as a resource provides a roadmap for balancing the mental and physical rigors of the tour.
Beyond the Baseline
Swiatek has long used her platform to champion causes close to her heart, specifically mental health and youth education. The foundation’s work follows several high-profile donations to children’s psychiatric clinics and her ongoing “reading challenge” initiative.
As the 2025 season concludes, Swiatek remains a dominant force on the court, finishing the year as the World No. 2 with titles in Seoul, Cincinnati, and London. However, this week in Warsaw, the focus wasn’t on her trophies, but on the five young athletes standing beside her. By investing in the next generation, Swiatek is ensuring that the “Polish Power” she brought to the global stage will continue to thrive long after she hangs up her racket.