“I think it’s too early.”
That was the response Iga Swiatek gave almost a fortnight ago when asked if she feels like the ‘Queen of Clay’.
Although it is a play on the nickname given to Rafael Nadal, Swiatek is already following in the footsteps of the 14-time French Open men’s champion.
A win against Jasmine Paolini in the final on Saturday will take the Pole to four titles at Roland Garros – the same number Nadal held at the same age of 23.
“We’ll see in 14 years if the journey is similar,” Swiatek said.
“I’d never expect anybody to compare me to Rafa because for me he’s above everybody, and he’s a total legend.”
The four-time major winner is the overwhelming favourite against late bloomer Paolini, who is making her Grand Slam final debut.
The 28-year-old Italian had never made it past the second round of a major until January, when she reached the fourth round of the Australian Open.
Now she finds herself one win away from Grand Slam glory and a £2m prize pot.
“I was watching the other Italians make it in the finals and winning Grand Slams, but [to] imagine that can be myself was tough,” said Paolini.
“I never dreamed so big. Never.”
The final takes place from 14:00 BST in Paris, with live commentary available on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra and the BBC Sport website and app.
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