Aryna Sabalenka responded forcefully to the chorus of detractors who have been questioning her recent performances, bluntly telling them that "haters can go and get on with their own lives" after she opened her US Open campaign with a convincing victory. The Belarusian, who is currently the world No.
1, used the post‑match interview to underline her confidence and to remind everyone that public opinion swings both ways – some people will cheer you on, while others will try to tear you down. Sabalenka entered the 2024 US Open with a clear objective: to become the first woman in the Open Era to win three consecutive titles at Flushing Meadows. The last six months have been a roller‑coaster for the four‑time Grand Slam champion.
After completing the coveted Sunshine Double – winning both Indian Wells and the Miami Open – in March, she hit a rough patch and failed to reach another final for half a year. Critics seized on that dip, labeling her as vulnerable and questioning whether she could sustain the level required for a historic "three‑peat". On the opening day of the tournament, Sabalenka silenced many of those doubters by unleashing a barrage of 32 winners to dispatch Camila Osorio 6‑2, 6‑4 in the first round on the iconic Arthur Ashe Stadium.
The emphatic performance set up a second‑round clash with Russia’s Polina Iatcenko, and the Belarusian’s body language suggested she was back in her dominant form. Her aggressive baseline game, powerful serve, and unrelenting footwork left little doubt that she was serious about reclaiming her throne. When asked about the constant scrutiny she faces, Sabalenka said, "People either love you or hate you. It took me a while to shut out the noise, but I’ve learned to focus on what matters – my own choices and my own process." She continued, "I’m so tired of the miserable haters.
I decided to stay strong, trust my decisions, and keep moving forward. Whoever loves me will be there no matter what. Haters can go and get on with their own lives." During the same press conference, a journalist attempted to probe the physical and mental toll of the hectic pre‑tournament schedule. The reporter asked, "With all the events leading up to the Open, it can be draining.
As the top seed and a favorite, how do you manage your energy, especially with the unique buzz of New York? How will you sustain your level over the next two weeks?" Sabalenka’s reply was terse: "What is the question there?" When the journalist followed up, "You had a lot going on last week. Now it’s just tennis and a bit of pressure," Sabalenka shot back, "Why do you think I wasn’t focused on tennis the week before?" She clarified, "It’s like my hobby outside of tennis. Our entire schedule revolves around the sport, so none of those events distract me." The exchange highlighted Sabalenka’s no‑nonsense attitude toward media scrutiny.
She made it clear that off‑court commitments – promotional appearances, sponsor obligations, or social events – are simply extensions of her tennis life, not separate distractions. By framing them as part of her broader routine, she reinforced the idea that her focus remains unwavering. Sabalenka’s confidence is also fueled by the broader context of the women’s rankings.
While she currently sits at the summit, three other contenders in the main draw are positioned close enough to challenge her dominance if they perform well. This competitive pressure adds another layer to her determination to defend her ranking and, ultimately, her title. The US Open coverage will be broadcast live on Sky Sports starting August 30, with streaming options available on NOW without a contract. Fans can also follow highlights, match‑day scores, and exclusive video content through the Sky Sports app.
For those interested in other tennis events, the Laver Cup will be held at The O2 in London from September 25‑27, also streamed on Sky Sports. Sabalenka’s message to her critics is unmistakable: she is not interested in appeasing the naysayers. Instead, she is focused on her own journey, trusting the process that has brought her three Grand Slam crowns so far, and aiming to add a fourth – a historic three‑peat – to her résumé.
Whether the haters retreat or continue to voice their discontent, Sabalenka has made it clear that her priority is to stay strong, play her best tennis, and let the results on the court speak for themselves.