wecastonlineAfter years of deep runs at the US Open, Aryna Sabalenka is edging ever closer to cracking the code of success at tennis’ final grand slam of the year. The Belarusian has experienced her fair share of heartbreak in New York, including two semifinal exits and a painful final defeat last year. Yet, with her recent success on the WTA Tour, Sabalenka enters this year’s tournament as one of the favorites, determined to finally lift the winner’s trophy.
Sabalenka’s preparation for the US Open has been bolstered by her impressive run in Cincinnati, where she claimed her 15th WTA title without dropping a set. Reflecting on the unpredictability of the sport, Sabalenka tells CNN Sport, “I’m not focusing on [the title]… I’m just trying to focus on myself, bringing my best tennis onto the court.” This approach has served her well as she looks to join the list of first-time champions that has emerged over the past decade.
Last year’s final was a tough lesson for Sabalenka. After an early lead against Coco Gauff, she watched the match slip away, resulting in a tearful end to her US Open campaign. The frustration was evident as she vented her anger by destroying her racket, a moment that encapsulated the solitary nature of tennis. However, Sabalenka views the loss as a learning experience, citing her “overthinking” during the match as a key factor in her defeat.
Now, a year later, Sabalenka is channeling those lessons into her preparations for the tournament. She’s focused on maintaining a balance between her rigorous on-court efforts and her downtime. “Of course, I have to work hard, I have to fight for every point on the court, but I also have to give myself time,” she says. This approach helped her stay grounded last year, and she’s hoping it will lead to success in 2024.
Outside of tennis, Sabalenka has been busy with a new collaboration with açaí brand Oakberry, where she launched her “Power Serve Bowl.” Despite her hectic schedule, she’s confident that she can bring her best to Flushing Meadows.
Sabalenka will begin her US Open campaign with a first-round match against Australia’s Priscilla Hon, looking to extend her strong recent form as she battles for her first grand slam title.
With her eyes set on glory and a balanced approach to the grueling demands of the tour, Aryna Sabalenka is ready to fight for every point in her quest for US Open success.
