World No. 3 Iga Swiatek, a favorite for the ladies' singles title at Wimbledon, has stated she will continue her practice of taking tournament towels, a habit that has earned her the affectionate nickname "the towel thief."

Swiatek clarified that she does not keep the towels for personal use but collects them as souvenirs to give to family, friends, and charities. She noted that the towels became a viral sensation, and many were distributed to charity after her 2025 Wimbledon victory.

"I guess I should steal even more," Swiatek said during a press conference at Wimbledon. "I will continue that because it's the best kind of souvenir you can get from a tournament."

When informed about a limited-edition red towel available this year, she responded, "I will ask for it."

Following her Wimbledon win in 2025, the tournament acknowledged her playful habit by presenting her with a personalized towel that read "Property of Iga Świątek, Wimbledon Champion."

Swiatek is the defending champion at Wimbledon and aims to retain her title in the 2026 tournament. She confirmed her intention to continue her towel collection, emphasizing the sentimental value these items hold for her and her loved ones.

She is the defending Ladies Wimbledon champion

Fans have reacted positively to her tradition, with many expressing support online. One user on X commented, "Good luck at Wimbledon and towel up, they can afford it."

She said she gives away the towels she steals from tournaments to family and charities

Wimbledon towels, like this one used by retired champion Roger Federer, are a prized possession for some of the players on the tour