Aryna Sabalenka’s Summer Challenges
A month of mental challenges defined Aryna Sabalenka’s summer, culminating in a decision to take a break from the strenuous WTA Tour. After a heartbreaking defeat to Coco Gauff in the Roland Garros final, Sabalenka faced another setback when Amanda Anisimova knocked her out of the Wimbledon semi-finals. Both matches went to three sets, underlining the toll of the back-to-back losses. Consequently, Sabalenka made the choice to forego the recent event in Montreal to recharge.
Taking a Break
Instead of competing, the Belarusian player opted for a well-deserved holiday in the weeks leading up to the Cincinnati tournament, the last WTA 1000 event before she defends her title at the US Open. During her break, which spanned a little over a week, Sabalenka found solace away from the demanding expectations of professional tennis. In her own words, she needed to step back, relax, and rejuvenate.
Insights from Cincinnati
In a recent interview in Cincinnati, Sabalenka elaborated on her choice to take time off, noting,
“The season has been really intense. It’s impossible to be on your best level every day, every week. I thought, ‘Maybe I need to step back and take a little break, just chill, recharge and start everything all over again.'”
The break proved beneficial; she described returning from the holiday feeling “fresh and ready” to tackle the upcoming challenges.
A Light Workout
Interestingly, during her vacation, Sabalenka made a rare appearance at the gym, where she completed only a single workout session: a casual 30-minute incline walk while clad in a bikini and flip-flops.
“I didn’t even go to the gym, I have to say. I did one workout, just to make sure I have some space in there. But it wasn’t much actually. It was like a week, 7 or 8 days, but it was amazing days, you know, I felt so good and much needed and now I’m fresh and ready,”
she remarked with a touch of humor.
Looking Ahead to the US Open
As she prepares for the US Open, where she aims to defend her title, Sabalenka reflects on her previous experiences as a Grand Slam champion. With the Australian Open already in her pocket, she is determined to replicate that success in New York.
“The US Open has always been my favorite Slam. I’m the defending champion, and I love being in this position. I really hope those lessons I learned in the previous Slams are going to help me. I really hope I’m going to get to my peak at the Open,”
Sabalenka asserted.
Upcoming Matches
In the Cincinnati draw, the top-seeded player anticipates facing off against former Wimbledon titleholder Marketa Vondrousova in her second-round match, provided Vondrousova overcomes her first-round opponent.
