Press Conference Key Announcements

Here are the key announcements and statements from the press conference:

Match Performance and Strategy

The player expressed happiness about winning the first match and discussed her performance, particularly in the first set.

• She initially struggled to find her rhythm but improved in the last two games of the first set.
• She identified the opponent’s serve as awkward and the balls flying a lot as contributing factors to her initial struggle.
• She felt the need to step in and put pressure on her opponent, which proved effective.

— Irina

Net Play and Game Development

The player discussed her increased net play and its importance in her evolving game.

• She stated she was working on her volley and was happy to execute it effectively during the match.
• She prefers to be unpredictable in her game.
• She emphasized the importance of constantly evolving, developing, and adding new elements to her game to maintain consistency.

— Irina

Jewelry Collaboration with Material Good

The player announced and discussed her long-term collaboration with Material Good.

• She expressed excitement about the partnership, citing her positive experiences with the brand and its team in New York.
• She highlighted the creative freedom and unique design space the collaboration offers her.
• She confirmed it is a long-term partnership with plans to create many new pieces throughout the year.

— Irina

First Experience at the Australian Open

The player reflected on her first experience playing in Melbourne.

• She recalled her first match being against Ashleigh Barty on Rod Laver Arena, describing it as “not the best experience” but a significant learning opportunity.
• Despite losing, she enjoyed the match and valued the experience of seeing where her game was at.
• She is proud of the connection she has built with the fans in Melbourne since that initial match.

— Irina

Presence of Roger Federer and Rod Laver

The player commented on the notable presence of Roger Federer and Rod Laver watching her match.

• She is a huge fan of both and admitted to trying not to look at them during the match.
• She found it unbelievable and a dream-like experience to have them watching her play.
• She jokingly attributed her frequent net play to wanting to impress Roger Federer.

— Irina