Iga Swiatek's hopes for Olympic gold ended in a shocking quarterfinal loss to China's Zheng Qinwen after a contentious match against American Danielle Collins. The match against Collins, which featured a backhand that hit Swiatek and led to her falling to the court, culminated in Collins retiring due to severe cramping and dehydration. Collins later accused Swiatek of insincerity regarding her injury, stating that athletes can often present themselves differently in public versus in private. Swiatek, who had been a favorite to win given her dominance on clay, faced criticism for leaving the court without acknowledging the umpire after her defeat. This unexpected exit has left tennis fans and analysts surprised, as Swiatek had been aiming for her first Olympic medal at the venue where she has been highly successful. The incident highlights the intense pressures athletes face and the emotional toll of high-stakes competition.