Star-Studded Tennis: Iga Swiatek Thrilled by Celebrity Presence

Top seed Iga Swiatek was thrilled by the presence of Jason Sudeikis, the star of her favorite TV show 'Ted Lasso,' during her fourth-round match at the U.S. Open. Celebrities like Anna Wintour and Ben Stiller regularly attend, and Swiatek also had an encounter with Serena Williams. American player Frances Tiafoe shared his admiration for 'Scandal' star Tony Goldwyn post-match.

Top seed Iga Swiatek received a morale boost for her fourth-round clash against Liudmila Samsonova at the U.S. Open as Jason Sudeikis, the star of 'Ted Lasso,' attended her match at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

The annual celebrity presence was in full swing at the year's final major event. Regulars like Vogue editor Anna Wintour and comedic actor Ben Stiller were spotted, but Swiatek was particularly excited to see Jason Sudeikis during her 6-4, 6-1 victory. 'I actually tried to avoid looking at the screens, but I saw him tonight when I was looking at the chair umpire,' said Swiatek, who appreciates the Apple TV show's message of 'positivity.'

'I wanted to stay focused, and I hope he appreciates my mentality because this is what 'Ted Lasso' is all about.' This was Swiatek's second star-struck moment at Flushing Meadows, as she also spoke with 23-time major winner Serena Williams, who returned to the tournament for the first time in two years. 'It was nice that she approached me because I wouldn't have had the courage to do that myself,' Swiatek added.

Not all competitors are as reserved. After his fourth-round win over Alexei Popyrin, American player Frances Tiafoe took the microphone from the on-court interviewer to address 'Scandal' star Tony Goldwyn, who was in the crowd. 'I'm a huge fan of you, bro,' Tiafoe said, gesturing toward Goldwyn. 'Me and my girl used to watch 'Scandal' all the time.'

(With inputs from agencies.)