According to multiple sources close to the tournament, Gauff submitted the complaint to tournament officials late last night, alleging that Świątek engaged in “aggressive and unsportsmanlike conduct” toward her after their intense quarterfinal match.
The match itself had been fiercely contested, with Świątek eventually edging out Gauff in a three-set battle that had the crowd on edge. While both players shook hands at the net in what appeared to be a standard post-match exchange, tensions reportedly flared backstage. According to the complaint, Świątek allegedly confronted Gauff in the players’ tunnel, accusing her of gamesmanship and making comments that left Gauff “emotionally shaken and publicly humiliated.”
Gauff later told media, “I feel a lot of pressure, and what happened after the match really crossed the line. This isn’t just about competition — it’s about how we treat each other as professionals.”
While no video footage of the alleged incident has surfaced, tournament staff have confirmed that an official complaint has been lodged and that an internal review is now underway. A spokesperson for the Madrid Open stated, “We are aware of the situation between Ms. Gauff and Ms. Świątek. As per protocol, a formal investigation is being conducted to determine whether there was a breach of conduct.”
In the complaint, Gauff is reported to have requested that Świątek be issued a formal warning and suspended from the tournament, potentially facing disqualification if found in violation of player conduct rules. Though disqualifications for off-court behavior are rare, the rules do permit such action if the incident is deemed serious enough.
Świątek, currently ranked No. 1 in the world, has not yet made a public statement. Her team has declined to comment, saying only that they are “fully cooperating” with officials. However, sources close to the Polish star suggest she was “surprised” by the complaint and denies that any aggressive behavior occurred.
The WTA has yet to issue an official statement, but the matter is now being handled at both the tournament and tour levels. If disciplinary action is taken, it could have significant implications not only for the remainder of the Madrid Open but also for the upcoming French Open, where both players are considered top contenders.
Reactions from the tennis world have been mixed. Some former players and commentators have called for calm and patience until the facts are verified. Others have stressed the importance of maintaining professionalism, especially among top-ranked athletes who serve as role models for the next generation.
As the investigation continues, both players are expected to remain in Madrid, though their future in the tournament remains uncertain. For now, the situation has cast a cloud over what had been an otherwise thrilling week of tennis, reminding fans and players alike that the pressures of elite competition extend far beyond the baseline.
