In the realm of tennis, achieving the Calendar Golden Slam is a rare feat reserved for the elite. Steffi Graf’s iconic 1988 season stands as the sole testament to this remarkable accomplishment. As the tennis world turns its attention to the rising star Iga Swiatek, questions arise about her potential to replicate Graf’s historic achievement.
Pam Shriver, a former world No. 3 and Grand Slam champion herself, cautiously assessed Swiatek’s chances, acknowledging the magnitude of the task at hand. With only Graf having conquered the Calendar Golden Slam, Shriver placed the odds at a modest one to five percent. Shriver’s insights stem from a deep understanding of the sport, having clinched 21 Grand Slam titles during her illustrious career.
Swiatek, the current world No. 1, enters the 2024 season as the frontrunner, having concluded the previous year by reclaiming the top spot in the WTA Rankings. Her prowess on the clay courts is undeniable, particularly at Roland Garros, where she secured a triple triumph. The upcoming Olympics at the same venue provide a golden opportunity for Swiatek, who has already proven her mettle with a 2022 US Open victory.
Despite her dominance on clay, challenges loom at the Australian Open and Wimbledon. Swiatek’s deepest run in Melbourne was a semifinal appearance in 2022, while Wimbledon saw her reach the quarterfinals. These hurdles add an element of uncertainty to her pursuit of the Calendar Golden Slam.
Pam Shriver remains optimistic about Swiatek’s future, foreseeing the young Polish player potentially surpassing Chris Evert’s Roland Garros record. With three Grand Slam titles already under her belt, Swiatek’s journey captivates the tennis world, leaving fans eager to witness if she can etch her name alongside the legendary Steffi Graf in the annals of tennis history. As the 2024 season unfolds, the stage is set for Swiatek to embark on a quest for greatness, aiming to defy the odds and etch her legacy in the sport’s prestigious records.