Aryna Sabalenka issues spiky response after being told record she holds at the US Open, ‘what kind of question is that’
Aryna Sabalenka is no stranger to controversy in a press conference, and if she feels passionate about something, she’s unafraid to let her feelings be known.
This is part of what makes her so well-liked and respected; her honesty and openness, which at times manifest as frustration, are truly authentic.
As the world’s top-ranked player, she remains a fantastic figurehead for the sport, even if she is flawed. Arguably, this only makes her more personable.
However, on this particular occasion, it’s fair to say that Aryna Sabalenka seemed frustrated with everyone at her latest US Open press conference.
She twice had small spats with reporters, and actually started the interview in acrimonious fashion. Whether she was justified in these outbursts is a wholly subjective matter.
Aryna Sabalenka hits back at reporter at the US Open
The very first question asked came from one journalist, who was keen to learn her feelings on the scheduling.
He posited: “You were put on Ashe for the first two matches of this tournament, which means you are the player who has been put the most on Armstrong in the last 10 years. I was wondering if you were surprised by that?”
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Sabalenka then replied: “I love how you guys come up with those random stats; I am not really thinking about that.”
The reporter followed up by asking: “When it’s Ashe vs Armstrong, do you have a preference?”
This prompted a spiky response from the Belarusian, who argued back: “Obviously I have a preference. It’s Ashe. What kind of question is that? But I like to play on Armstrong as well. Both stadiums have an incredible atmosphere and incredible vibes, so I don’t really mind, but I would prefer Ashe.”
Later on, she took justifiable issue with another inquiry which appeared to question her dedication and focus in the run-up to this year’s US Open.
The only way Aryna Sabalenka can stay world number one after the US Open
There is plenty of pressure on Sabalenka’s shoulders ahead of this year’s US Open.
After all, not only is she the two-time defending champion here in New York, but there is a handful of players all vying to become the world number one at her expense.
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She is fighting to retain her crown, ensure she doesn’t finish the 2026 season without a Grand Slam, and keep a hold of the top spot in the world rankings.
For the latter, the only way she can achieve this goal is by winning the entire US Open.
However, even if Sabalenka does retain the title, Rybakina would still rise to overtake her by reaching the semi-finals.
