“It even sounds absurd”: Mikaela Shiffrin offers surprising support for Iga Swiatek following her huge Cincinnati Open triumph

Mikaela Shiffrin, an American skiing celebrity, and Iga Swiatek, a Polish tennis great, have become close friends while dealing with the demands of stardom. Their relationship began in April 2023 during an Instagram Live where they openly discussed concerns in public life. Mikaela stated, “It’s exhausting…hard to know what to say and start a conversation,” while Iga added, “Fame makes it harder to trust people,” indicating a profound connection to each other’s challenges.

Iga Swiatek wins the 2025 Cincinnati Open in straight sets.

With a victory at the Cincinnati Open in 2025, Iga Swatek’s incredible streak continued. On August 19th, 2025, she defeated Jasmine Paolini 7-5, 6-4 to win her first Cincinnati Open title and eleventh WTA 1000 championship, moving into sole possession of second place in the all-time rankings for WTA 1000 titles after Serena Williams.

Let’s goooooooo Iga!! Jazda 🤙🤙@iga_swiatek https://t.co/9xd4xPgwUV

— Mikaela Shiffrin ⛷️ (@MikaelaShiffrin) August 19, 2025

Iga demonstrated amazing determination throughout her run and did not lose a set. In the final, Paolini had an early lead after Iga fell behind, but Iga recovered to finish strong.

Iga’s triumph in this game was partly due to her ability to serve when necessary. Iga’s performance in this tournament allowed her to recapture the No. 2 WTA ranking, slightly ahead of Coco Gauff.

Mikaela Shiffrin and Iga Swiatek celebrate friendship and mutual support.
Mikaela and Iga’s friendship revolves around mutual support and joyous gatherings. Mikaela expressed her pleasure on social media after Iga won in Cincinnati, writing, “Let’s go, Iga!!” Jazda”.

Personal interactions have also contributed to the strength of their friendship. On February 23, 2025, Iga congratulated Mikaela on her historic 100th World Cup victory in Sestriere, Italy, with a heartfelt greeting, “Wow!” What you’re doing is monumental. Congratulations on your 100th World Cup victory. It even sounds silly.

Mikaela promised to name one of her reindeer after Iga during the 2024-25 season in a humorous scene. Iga reacted enthusiastically, “Waiting for ‘Iga'”.

Their friendship exemplifies the importance of mutual respect and shared experiences outside the confines of their respective sports.