Swiatek Engages in Lighthearted Banter with Umpire Cicak Following Time Violation at Miami Open
World No. 2 Iga Swiatek couldn’t resist a playful jest directed at umpire Marija Cicak after receiving a time violation during her recent victory at the Miami Open. In a compelling match on Monday, Swiatek overcame Elina Svitolina in a contest marked by fluctuating momentum, ultimately securing a 7-6(5), 6-3 win. Despite the intensity of the encounter, Swiatek displayed good humor as she jokingly teased Cicak, with whom she shares a history of on-court interactions.
Time Violation Incident
During a crucial moment while serving for the match, Swiatek appeared to intentionally decelerate her pace between serves, seemingly to regain composure. As anticipated, Cicak issued a time violation warning, which did not deter Swiatek from proceeding to clinch the match.
Post-Match Playful Exchange
Following the match conclusion, Swiatek approached Cicak in a lighthearted manner and remarked, “I almost thought I’m not getting a time violation from you.”
She then added to the jest by humorously snapping her fingers before departing the court, waving to the remaining spectators at Hard Rock Stadium.
Prior Encounter in Cincinnati
This exchange is not isolated, as Swiatek and Cicak have a history of such interactions. Notably, during the 2023 Western and Southern Open in Cincinnati, Cicak penalized Swiatek with a time violation at match point. This occurred because Swiatek was not prepared to receive serve from Marketa Vondrousova, having turned her back to the court momentarily.
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Heated Exchange in Cincinnati
The Cincinnati incident led to a spirited discussion between Swiatek and Cicak regarding the time infraction. Cicak was reportedly heard stating, “It is not your time” and “You were stood there for another five to seven seconds for no reason and you can at least turn around.”
Swiatek Downplays Tension
In the subsequent post-match press conference, Swiatek minimized the significance of the Cincinnati episode, asserting that no animosity existed between herself and Cicak. “No, no, I wouldn’t say ‘tension’,” she clarified.
“I respect Marija Cicak, she’s a distinguished umpire. However, she is known for her strict adherence to regulations, consistently applying them, even scrutinizing instances down to a single second.”
“Indeed, in the final two games, we engaged in extended rallies, leading me to feel the need for a moment to recover my breath. However, Marketa’s pace did not readily allow for this. We are allotted, what, 23 or 25 seconds?”
Past Controversy at Indian Wells
This Miami Open incident is not the first time Swiatek has been involved in on-court situations attracting attention. Recently, she faced criticism from some spectators following a moment of frustration at Indian Wells.
Ball Kid Incident and Apology
During a semi-final match against Mirra Andreeva, Swiatek struck a ball downwards in frustration, narrowly missing a ball kid situated nearby. She subsequently issued a public apology via social media for losing control of her emotions. She affirmed that she never intended to direct the ball at anyone, but was merely attempting to release frustration.
“I expressed frustration in a manner I regret,” she conceded. “My intention was never to aim the ball at anyone but simply to release my frustration by bouncing it on the ground.”
“I immediately apologized to the ball boy; we made eye contact and nodded to acknowledge the incident. I have observed numerous players bounce balls in moments of frustration, and frankly, I did not anticipate such severe criticism. I typically control such impulses, so somewhat jokingly, I can say I lack experience in this and misjudged my aim in the heat of the moment.”