Iga Swiatek joins Roger Federer in groundbreaking sponsorship move

World No.1 Iga Swiatek has made the huge announcement she will be the first female tennis player joining the 'ON Running' brand - of which Roger Federer is a shareholder - and will be wearing the apparel as early as next week. Swiatek, who was previously sponsored by ASICS, currently sits more than 3000 points ahead of Aryna Sabalenka as the No.1 player in the world having just reached the semi-finals at Indian Wells.

The 21-year-old phenom is the most consistent player on the WTA Tour and has already won three grand slam titles. And in a huge move that will be sure to shake-up tennis sponsorship, Swiatek became the first female player to sign with Swiss brand 'On Running' and its apparel, and will eventually wear the sponsor from head-to-toe.

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Federer is a shareholder in the Swiss brand. The company also announced the signing of American prodigy Ben Shelton. Swiatek and Shelton will debut ON's inaugural apparel line as soon as next week at the Miami Open.

"I'm very excited to be the first female player to join with On, and truly thrilled how On's Lightning innovation team works and adapts technologies to meet the demands of athletes, supporting their careers," Swiatek said in her announcement. "It has been very inspirational for me to develop my ideas and needs with them, working on my current and future gear."

Federer responded to Swiatek's announcement and wrote: "Welcome Iga." She replied: "Thank you maestro."

Federer invested early in the Swiss company and announced the Roger Pro Sneaker, which he wore back in 2021 when he helped start the project. 'On Running' revealed Federer worked closely with the company to design his shoe and craft the product. A number of professional athletes currently wear the 'On Running' shoes as well.

Swiatek and Shelton's move marks a huge shake-up in tennis apparel in 2023. with tennis fans reacting to the huge team-up between the icon Federer and Swiatek. Fans will be on the look out for Swiatek's new kit at the Miami Open after she previously wore ASICS.

Iga Swiatek announces injury ahead of Miami Open

While Swiatek could wear her new sponsor at the Miami Open, the World No.1 claimed she was injured during her Indian Wells semi-final run. Sabalenka defeated Swiatek in a close battle, but after the match Swiatek admitted she struggled to compete at her best after carrying an injury.

"Tough one tonight. I gave it all but Elena was a better player. Unfortunately, I'm feeling discomfort and pain in my ribs and it was challenging for me to compete at my highest level," she wrote. I will consult with my team and I will definitely use these next days to recover. See you soon."

While Swiatek hasn't withdrawn from Miami, it remains to be seen if the World No.1 would rather rest to make sure she is 100 per cent fit for her clay-court campaign. The two-time Roland Garros champion will be looking at Paris as another potential grand slam opportunity.

Federer only announced his retirement from tennis last year when he played a doubles match with Rafa Nadal at the Laver Cup. There has been speculation Federer will make an appearance as a commentator at this year's Wimbledon Championship, but there has been no confirmation from the All England Club.

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