Six-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek is set for a major schedule shift to start her 2027 season. Under the guidance of coach Francisco Roig, who joined her team in April following her split with Wim Fissette, the Polish star will make her debut at the Brisbane International rather than returning to the United Cup. Iga Swiatek makes dramatic schedule decision under new coach by skipping tournament she has never missed in 4 years.
Speaking to Przegląd Sportowy Onet, Roig confirmed that Swiatek will pass on the team event taking place in January. Swiatek had featured in every edition of the United Cup since its inception in 2023, helping Poland secure the title this year after finishing as runners-up to Germany in 2024 and the United States in 2025. Brisbane, scheduled for January 3-10, overlaps directly with the United Cup. The WTA 500 event offers up to 500 ranking points, while the 150 points Swiatek earned at last year’s United Cup will drop off her total. Roig explained that the decision aligns with their structured training plan, designed to maximize her performance at the Australian Open.
The move follows an early conclusion to Swiatek’s 2026 campaign due to a left thigh injury suffered during her Wuhan Open semifinal loss against Maja Chwalinska. She subsequently withdrew from the Ningbo Open, citing the need for rest after what she described as “one of the most demanding seasons” of her career.
Swiatek’s primary focus in Australia will be claiming her first Major crown since her victory at the 2025 Wimbledon Championships, which would also complete her Career Grand Slam. Her personal best result at the Melbourne Slam came in 2025 when she reached the semifinals before losing to eventual champion Madison Keys. Her 2026 Australian Open run ended in the quarterfinals with a 7-5, 6-1 loss to ultimate winner Elena Rybakina. While Swiatek noted that achieving the Career Grand Slam would be a “dream come true,” she emphasized that her immediate focus remains on continuing to improve her overall game. As the Pole will not only look to win her first Major title since the 2025 Wimbledon Championships, but will also be aiming to complete the, iga Swiatek ‘s decision to prioritize the Australian Open comes as no surprise.
