Aryna Sabalenka responded sharply to the chorus of criticism that has followed her recent performances, telling detractors that "haters can go and get on with their own lives" after she opened her campaign for a potential third straight US Open title with a decisive victory. The Belarusian, who currently sits atop the women's rankings, has been working to re‑establish the dominance that defined the first half of the year. After a six‑month stretch that saw her miss a final for the first time since completing the Sunshine Double in March, Sabalenka entered Arthur Ashe Stadium with a clear purpose: to prove she still belongs among the sport’s elite and to silence the voices that question her consistency. In her opening match, the world No.
1 unleashed an aggressive arsenal of 32 winners, dispatching Colombia’s Camila Osorio 6‑2, 6‑4. The win not only set the tone for Sabalenka’s quest for a rare "three‑peat" at the season‑ending major, but also secured a second‑round encounter with Russia’s Polina Iatcenko.
The early triumph was a reminder of the power tennis fans have come to expect from Sabalenka—a player capable of turning matches into showcases of sheer athleticism and relentless firepower. When asked about the polarized reactions she receives, Sabalenka didn’t mince words. "People either love you or they hate you," she told Sky Sports Tennis, reflecting on the inevitable scrutiny that accompanies a top‑ranked career. "It took me a while to shut out that noise, but I’ve learned that there will always be supporters and there will always be opponents.
I’m exhausted by the miserable haters. I’ve decided to stay strong, trust the process, trust my choices, and trust my taste.
Whoever loves me will be there no matter what; haters can go and get on with their own lives." Her statement underscored a growing confidence in her own narrative, a refusal to let external commentary dictate her mindset. The press conference that followed the match turned into a brief but pointed exchange with a journalist probing the physical demands of the tournament schedule.
The reporter asked, "With the week leading up to the Open filled with events and the energy of New York, how do you balance your stamina, especially as the top seed and a favorite to win?" Sabalenka replied, "What is the question there?" before pushing back, "Why do you think I wasn’t focused on tennis the week before?" The journalist clarified, "I think you were, but you had a lot of commitments." Sabalenka responded, "Those events are like a hobby outside tennis. Our schedule revolves around tennis, so none of those commitments distract me in any way." The interaction highlighted her belief that everything she does is ultimately in service of her performance on court, and that external engagements are integrated into, rather than separate from, her preparation. Beyond the verbal sparring, Sabalenka’s performance carries significant implications for the WTA rankings. Three other contenders in the women’s draw are positioned to challenge her hold on the No.
1 spot, meaning every match in the early rounds is not just about advancing in the tournament but also about defending a coveted ranking. The pressure to maintain her position adds another layer to the narrative of resilience she is crafting. The US Open, which began broadcasting on Sky Sports on August 30, continues to attract viewers through multiple platforms, including the contract‑free NOW streaming service and the Sky Sports app. Fans can also catch highlights, full‑match replays, and exclusive interviews that delve deeper into players’ mindsets.
For those interested in broader tennis coverage, the Laver Cup at London’s O₂ Arena, scheduled for September 25‑27, will also be streamed live on Sky Sports, offering a complementary showcase of the sport’s top talent. Sabalenka’s outspoken stance against negativity reflects a broader trend among elite athletes who are increasingly vocal about mental health, media pressure, and the importance of self‑belief. By confronting her critics head‑on and framing the conversation around personal accountability and confidence, she joins a growing list of sports figures who refuse to be defined by external judgments.
In the weeks ahead, Sabalenka will need to sustain the level of play she displayed against Osorio if she hopes to navigate the grueling two‑week marathon that is the US Open. The physical demands of New York’s climate, the intensity of back‑to‑back matches, and the mental weight of expectations will test her resolve. Yet, her early display of power, combined with an unapologetic attitude toward detractors, suggests she is prepared to meet those challenges head‑on. Whether she ultimately secures a third consecutive US Open crown remains to be seen, but her message to the haters is clear: they are welcome to step aside while she focuses on her game, her goals, and the supporters who stand by her.
The tournament will continue to unfold, offering more opportunities for Sabalenka to prove that her talent, determination, and refusal to be swayed by negativity are as formidable as her serve.