As a junior, Iga Swiatek spent hours on the practice court hammering forehands like her hero.

The young Swiatek modeled her heavy topspin forehand on Rafael Nadal's forehand, but never dreamed she'd share the court with the king of clay.

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World No. 1 Swiatek has hit with Nadal and chatted with top-ranked Novak Djokovic after her Rome practice yesterday.

The reigning Rome champion rolled to her 24th consecutive win in her Rome opener today.

Afterward, the champion on a roll talked role models.



Swiatek said the Big 3's career-long consistency is an element she strives to emulate.

"I feel like the big three have shown so much consistency, that this is the kind of thing I would like to have," Swiatek told the media in Rome. "I know it's little bit different in women's tennis. For sure they're, like, really good role models.

"I think from the technique or physicality, it's pretty hard to take something because it's obvious that we are not as strong as men in terms of physicality.

"But I always said that I wanted to play topspin because I watched Rafa on TV playing topspin. At one point you can be inspired by technique or some stuff. I would say the consistency is the thing I'm looking up to mostly."



Grand Slam king has inspired Swiatek personally. Nadal texted Swiatek encouraging words after tough Australian Open semifinal loss to Danielle Collins. Swiatek has posted a 25-1 record since that loss to Collins in Melbourne.

"For me it's really inspiring,” Swiatek said of Nadal's text after the AO. “Even though I wasn't really angry and sad after my match with Danielle because I know she played pretty perfect game, I mean, yeah, I just felt really motivated.

"The day after I lost I wanted to come back on court and work harder. I think Rafa's message had a lot to do with that. “Yeah, he's just great example for all of us. It's pretty cool to have contact with him.”

Photo credit: Rafa Nadal Academy