World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka criticized a reporter’s line of questioning during her post-match press conference at the US Open on Wednesday, following her 6-1, 6-1 victory over Polina Iatcenko in the second round.
Sabalenka, a two-time defending champion, pushed back after being asked whether her pre-tournament activities included ‘parties and fun.’ The exchange occurred during a press conference after her match at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Sabalenka’s Response
Sabalenka responded sharply to the question, stating: ‘You guys are like a joke. Parties? Fun? Why would you even say that? Why would you even think about that?’ She added: ‘Just because I posted some activities with brands, and you think that I’ve been partying, not training?’ before ending the exchange.
The reporter, identified in some sources as Matthew Futterman of The Athletic, clarified that the question was not suggesting Sabalenka had been partying but was referencing her off-court appearances. Sabalenka replied: ‘You literally said that.’ She later added: ‘Think before you say stuff.’
Performance and Preparation
Sabalenka, who has not dropped a set in her first two matches, addressed her focus and preparation. ‘I’ve been working really hard, but I feel like I’m kind of moving away from trying to be perfect on court,’ she said. ‘I know that you cannot be perfect, and I’m just trying to work with what I have right now.’
She acknowledged a difficult mid-season period but stated she feels ‘mentally and physically stronger’ now. ‘I can definitely say that mentally I’m way stronger than I was in the middle of the season,’ she said. ‘Physically I also feel stronger. I feel like I’m on my level of play.’
Sabalenka, seeking a third consecutive US Open title, will face Kamilla Rakhimova in the third round. She has not won a title since the Miami Open in March but has maintained her top ranking through strong performances in Grand Slam events.
Media Exchange Context
The exchange followed a similar line of questioning after Sabalenka’s first-round win. Multiple reports noted that she had shared three pieces of branded content on her Instagram account since arriving in New York, which some outlets framed as contributing to the reporter’s line of inquiry.
Sabalenka’s comments came amid discussions about the balance between on-court performance and off-court obligations for top athletes, particularly during Grand Slam tournaments.