Aryna Sabalenka abruptly ended a probing interview about her off‑court activities after securing a dominant second‑round victory at the US Open. The two‑time defending champion dispatched Russian qualifier Polina Iatcenko in just 53 minutes, winning 6‑1, 6‑1 on the iconic Arthur Ashe Stadium.
However, the post‑match press conference quickly turned contentious when a reporter pressed her about the numerous brand appearances and events she has been involved in during the tournament week. Sabalenka, who frequently shares her engagements with sponsors and social‑media followers, reacted sharply. "You guys are a joke," she snapped.
"Parties, fun – why would you even ask that? What kind of question is that? Just because I posted some brand activities, you assume I'm partying instead of training? That's ridiculous." When the reporter tried to clarify, saying, "I'm not saying you go to parties, I'm just noting the many events you attend," Sabalenka cut him off, "You literally said that.
Next question." Her impatience was evident, and she seemed determined to move past the line of questioning. The journalist persisted, attempting to explain that his comment was not an accusation of frivolity but an observation of her busy schedule. "For anyone who’s unclear, I'm not suggesting Aryna is having fun at these parties," he said.
Sabalenka responded curtly, "Thanks, yeah. I'm saying she makes a lot of appearances and there's a lot to do and lots of events, OK?" The exchange ended with Sabalenka demanding, "OK.
Move on." The reporter then asked whether Sabalenka was now taking a more serious, combative approach now that the tournament was underway. Sabalenka replied, "Oh, yeah, I wasn't serious before that. Next question. Think before you say stuff." Her terse answer highlighted her frustration with what she perceived as invasive or irrelevant questioning.
Despite the tense interview, Sabalenka remains focused on her goal of a third consecutive US Open title, a feat last achieved by legends such as Serena Williams and Chris Evert. She is scheduled to face Uzbekistan's Kamilla Rakhimova on Friday, aiming for her 17th straight win at Flushing Meadows.
In other news from the tournament, Carlos Alcaraz continued his comeback from a long wrist injury, rallying from a set down to defeat Portugal's Jaime Faria 4‑6, 6‑0, 6‑3, 6‑2 and advance to the third round. Alcaraz, the defending champion, said, "After that I just tried to stay focused, stay calm, and I think good things will happen again," noting his 16‑match winning streak in Grand Slam events. Peruvian youngster Ignacio Buse added a historic note to his family's US Open legacy.
He secured his first main‑draw win by overcoming American Marcos Giron in a grueling five‑set battle (3‑6, 6‑3, 6‑3, 6‑7(6), 6‑1) that lasted three hours and 48 minutes on Court Six. Buse's victory echoed the achievement of his grandfather Eduardo, who last won a US Open match in 1958. Reflecting on the marathon, Buse said, "It's difficult to find calm in those situations, but in the fifth set I just tried to recover mentally.
It's a mental battle out there, I just stayed calm. It's a very special moment." Greek star Stefanos Tsitsipas also survived a tight contest, rallying from a set down to beat South Africa's Lloyd Harris 6‑7(1‑7), 6‑3, 7‑6(7‑4), 6‑4. Tsitsipas, who upset 10th seed Arthur Fils in the opening round, now prepares for a showdown with Czech 18th seed Jiri Lehecka.
American 11th seed Frances Tiafoe continued his quest to end a 23‑year drought for a home‑grown men’s champion, defeating Japanese qualifier Rei Sakamoto 6‑3, 7‑6(7‑2), 7‑5. Tiafoe's win keeps U.S. hopes alive as the tournament progresses. The US Open coverage remains available on Sky Sports from August 30, with streaming options on NOW and the Sky Sports app, allowing fans to watch matches without a contract.
Additionally, the Laver Cup will be broadcast live from The O2 in London between September 25‑27 on Sky Sports. Overall, Sabalenka's fiery exchange underscores the tension that can arise when athletes feel their professionalism is being questioned.
While she remains determined to defend her title, the incident serves as a reminder that media interactions can quickly become fraught, especially when players are protective of their preparation routines and public image. The tournament continues to deliver compelling storylines, from Alcaraz's resurgence to historic family moments for Buse, ensuring that fans have plenty to watch beyond the headlines.