Iga Swiatek’s Wimbledon Journey
Iga Swiatek has made a remarkable run in the Wimbledon women’s singles tournament, showcasing her skills as the No. 4 player in the world. As she prepares for her semifinal match, Swiatek’s performance stands out with four out of her five victories coming in straight sets, marking her third semifinal appearance in a Grand Slam this season. After dominating the competition, the 2025 Wimbledon spotlight is not solely on her achievements but also on an unusual favorite meal she enjoys during tournaments: strawberries and pasta.
Semifinal Matchup and Culinary Preferences
Set to face off against Belinda Bencic in the semifinals on Thursday, July 10, at 8 a.m. ET (1:30 p.m. local), Swiatek’s culinary preference has captured the attention of fans and the media alike. Her intriguing meal choice was revealed after a third-round match against American player Danielle Collins, where she humorously noted that while her team indulges in cheat meals, she prefers something different – a childhood favorite of pasta with strawberries.
“I see my team enjoying cheat meals every day, and I think, ‘Guys, that’s not really helpful.’ My favorite meal is actually pasta with strawberries,”
she commented, highlighting the dish’s nostalgic value.
To elaborate on this distinctive combination, Swiatek described her version as pasta topped with strawberries and a hint of yogurt.
“It’s just great,”
she added, noting her fondness for this sweet pasta dish.
Cultural Significance of Strawberries
The concept of incorporating strawberries into pasta may seem unusual, but for Swiatek, it is a delicious mix that resonates with her childhood experiences. After her victory on July 5, she remarked on the cultural significance of strawberries at Wimbledon, stating,
“Why is it such a big thing? Everybody should eat that. In the summertime, kids eat it a lot. It’s just a perfect mix of tastes.”
This dish, known in Poland as “makaron z truskawkami” or pasta with strawberries, is a popular sweet variation made from pasta dressed with a sauce of blended strawberries, sugar, and often creamy ingredients like yogurt or sour cream. While it may sound odd to some, Swiatek encourages everyone to try it, acknowledging the uniqueness of her culinary preference.
Swiatek’s Path to the Semifinals
Fans eager to follow her journey at Wimbledon should note Swiatek’s remarkable results leading to the semifinals:
- First Round: Victory over Polina Kudermetova (7-5, 6-1)
- Second Round: Victory over Caty McNally (5-7, 6-2, 6-1)
- Third Round: Victory over Danielle Collins (6-2, 6-3)
- Fourth Round: Victory over Clara Tauson (6-4, 6-1)
- Quarterfinals: Victory over Liudmila Samsonova (6-2, 7-5)
Swiatek, hailing from Warsaw, Poland, and now residing in the nearby town of Raszyn, is poised for a significant matchup that could lead her to the finals on July 12. The blend of her athletic prowess and culinary quirks adds to the narrative surrounding her Wimbledon experience, captivating fans both on and off the court.
