At the US Open 2026, defending champion Aryna Sabalenka is confidently advancing toward the title. The world number one secured a convincing victory over Russian qualifier Polina Yatsenko in the second round with a score of 6-1, 6-1. This match concluded in just 53 minutes.
However, during the post-match press conference, one of the questions caused significant irritation for Sabalenka. A journalist asked her about her activities before the tournament, specifically mentioning 'parties and fun.' Before the question was fully posed, Sabalenka interrupted the journalist and responded sharply.
In a viral video clip, Sabalenka stated: 'Why are you saying that, why do you think about it, what kind of question is that?' She emphasized that posting certain activities on social media does not mean she neglected her preparation for the tournament in favor of parties.
Sabalenka also addressed the journalist, asking if the assumption had been made that she was having parties instead of training based on posts related to her brands. She clarified: 'Just because I posted some brand activities, and you assume I'm having parties instead of training?'
This response came at a time when she arrived at the press conference after a brilliant performance on the court, where she left Yatsenko no chance in the second round match, winning both sets 6-1, 6-1. After expressing dissatisfaction with the question, Sabalenka also discussed her game and current psychological state. She admitted that she works hard but is now trying to move away from the attempt to make everything perfect on the court.
Sabalenka noted that she understands that no athlete can be perfect, and she is currently focused on playing her best with what she has. These changes are reflected in her game, as confirmed by the quick conclusion of the second-round match in only 53 minutes. The 28-year-old Sabalenka admitted that she faced some difficulties mid-season, but she declined to explain the reasons for that period.
