Aryna Sabalenka abruptly ended a probing interview with a reporter after her dominant second‑round victory, making it clear she would not entertain any more inquiries about her off‑court activities. The Belarusian, who is the two‑time defending champion at the US Open, dispatched Russian qualifier Polina Iatcenko in just 53 minutes, winning 6‑1, 6‑1 on the iconic Arthur Ashe Stadium. The swift win, however, was quickly followed by a heated exchange when the journalist asked whether her numerous public appearances and brand engagements were interfering with her preparation for the Grand Slam. Sabalenka, who frequently shares moments from the various events she attends and the sponsorship deals she fulfills on social media, responded sharply: "You guys are a joke.
Parties, fun—why would you even bring that up? What kind of question is that? Just because I posted some pictures with brands, you assume I'm partying instead of training? What is that supposed to mean?" When the reporter tried to clarify, saying, "I'm not saying you go to parties, I'm just noting you have a lot of events and commitments," Sabalenka cut him off, stating, "You literally said that.
Next question." Her frustration was evident, and she demanded the interview move on. The reporter persisted, attempting to explain that his point was merely that Sabalenka has a packed schedule of appearances and obligations. Sabalenka, visibly irritated, replied, "Okay, move on," indicating she would not entertain further speculation about her off‑court life. The tension escalated when the journalist asked, "Now that the tournament has begun, are you becoming more serious and combative?" Sabalenka answered curtly, "Oh, yeah, I wasn’t serious before that.
Next question. Think before you say stuff." Her terse remarks underscored a growing impatience with media narratives that focus on her lifestyle rather than her performance. Despite the confrontation, Sabalenka remains laser‑focused on her goal of capturing a third consecutive US Open title, a feat that would place her alongside legends like Serena Williams and Chris Evert. She is slated to face Uzbekistan’s Kamilla Rakhimova on Friday, aiming for her 17th straight win at Flushing Meadows.
The world No. 1’s determination to maintain her dominance is evident, even as she navigates the pressures of media scrutiny.
In other US Open action, Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz continued his comeback story after a lengthy wrist injury. The defending champion rallied from a set down to defeat Portugal’s Jaime Faria 4‑6, 6‑0, 6‑3, 6‑2, securing a spot in the third round. Alcaraz highlighted his mental approach, saying, "After that I just tried to stay focused, stay calm, and I believe good things will happen again," emphasizing the confidence that fuels his 16‑match Grand Slam winning streak.
Peruvian qualifier Ignacio Buse added a historic note to his family’s US Open legacy. He earned his first main‑draw victory 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 win marked the first US Open match victory for his family since his grandfather Eduardo’s triumph in 1958. Reflecting on the mental challenge of the fifth set, 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, and I stayed calm. It’s a very special moment." Greek star Stefanos Tsitsipas also survived a tough contest, rallying from a set deficit to defeat 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 looks ahead to a clash with Czech 18th seed Jiri Lehecka. Meanwhile, American 11th seed Frances Tiafoe kept the hope of a home‑grown champion alive by beating Japanese qualifier Rei Sakamoto 6‑3, 7‑6(7‑2), 7‑5, extending the United States’ wait for a men’s singles title to 23 years. The tournament continues to be broadcast live on Sky Sports from August 30, with streaming options available on NOW without a contract and through the Sky Sports app. Fans can also catch the upcoming Laver Cup at The O2 in London from September 25‑27 on Sky Sports.
Overall, the US Open has provided a mix of on‑court drama and off‑court tension. Sabalenka’s outburst highlights the delicate balance athletes must strike between their public personas and the intense focus required for elite competition. While she defends her preparation regimen against insinuations of frivolity, her performance on the court speaks volumes: a commanding win that propels her deeper into the tournament. As the weeks progress, the narrative will likely shift from media sparring to the pursuit of historic achievements, with Sabalenka, Alcaraz, and other top contenders all vying for the coveted trophy at Flushing Meadows.