Iga Swiatek has appointed Wim Fissette as her new coach following her recent split with Tomasz Wiktorowski.

The world No 1 expressed her excitement about working with Fissette and also explained she is approaching her career as “a marathon, not a sprint.” Swiatek announced she had parted ways with Wiktorowski earlier this month, having worked with the Polish coach since before the start of the 2022 season. She won 19 of her 22 WTA titles, including four of her five Grand Slams, with Wiktorowski on her coaching team.

The Polish star has hired one of the most successful and experienced WTA coaches in Fissette, who ended his second collaboration with four-time major winner Naomi Osaka last month. Fissette coached Osaka, Kim Clijsters and Angelique Kerber to Grand Slam titles, while he helped Simona Halep and Sabine Lisicki reach major finals. The Belgian has also worked with Victoria Azarenka, Petra Kvitova, Sara Errani, Johanna Konta and Zheng Qinwen.

In a social media post, Swiatek announced her big coaching move and highlighted her focus on the long-term. “I’m excited and motivated to start a new chapter. I’m happy to announce that Wim Fissette is joining our team,” the 23-year-old wrote. “As you know, I’m preparing for the WTA Finals but my perspective is, as always, long-term, not short-term. “I said many times that my career is a marathon for me, not a sprint and I’m working, operating and making decisions with this approach.

“I want to say that I’m very excited and looking forward to working with Wim. He seems to have a great attitude, vision and huge experience at the very top level of tennis. “It’s always crucial to get to know each other better but we’re off to a good start and I can’t wait to compete soon.”

Swiatek, who has not competed since the US Open, will attempt to defend her WTA Finals title in Riyadh next month. In an Instagram post last month, Fissette reflected on his split with Osaka and expressed that he felt the pair were “very close to a breakthrough.” “I first started coaching Naomi in 2019, and it was truly a pleasure. More so to be part of the comeback journey, seeing her grow as a person, athlete and now mother. A champion in many ways,” wrote the Belgian.

“We started from zero and developed week by week. In 15 years on tour, this was one of my best years working together with amazing people. From every defeat, we worked harder and better and grew a lot. “We were very close to a breakthrough. When you do the right things and keep hearing from peers you are in the right direction, it’s tough not quite getting it yet. As the coach, you keep trusting the process, knowing the lessons are getting you closer to the trophies.

“After the US Open, Naomi decided to move forward with a new path. I accepted it knowing we close this second run with more good memories and gratitude for building her way back. Always wishing the very best for each other and families.

“I’m now looking forward to a new chapter and excited for a next great partnership!”