INDIAN WELLS, Calif. — Aryna Sabalenka’s run at the BNP Paribas Open began with a personal milestone: a surprise engagement to Brazilian businessman Georgios Frangulis. The world No. 1 revealed details of the proposal, admitting a last-minute wardrobe decision almost overshadowed the special moment.
The Belarusian star, fresh off a victory over Jacqueline Cristian at Indian Wells on Sunday, shared the story after her match. According to Sabalenka, the entire proposal was orchestrated by her team and Frangulis, and she was completely unaware of the plan. “As probably all of you saw, I wasn’t prepared at all. It was a surprise,” she said.
Sabalenka explained that nearly everyone around her was in on the secret. “The whole team knew. My agent told me that I have a particularly important meeting for 15 minutes. Just position on something nice.” However, after a grueling day of practice, Sabalenka opted for comfort over couture. “I was super tired in the evening. I thought, okay, I’m not going to do this. I’m just going to put on jeans.”
Upon arriving at the location – a house rented specifically for the occasion – the reality of the situation hit her. And she immediately regretted her casual attire. “Then we came there and I saw Georgios, and I was crying half of the time because I thought I looked ugly, unprepared, and it’s such a gorgeous moment,” Sabalenka confessed.
The engagement comes at a busy time for Sabalenka, who is competing at the Masters 1000 event in Indian Wells. She continued her winning streak against players outside the WTA Top 20, defeating Cristian 6-4, 6-1 in just 71 minutes. This victory marks the 23rd consecutive win for Sabalenka against an opponent ranked outside the Top 20. [1, 2]
Sabalenka’s next challenge will be a highly anticipated match against Naomi Osaka, who defeated Camila Osorio 6-1, 3-6, 6-1. This will be only the second professional meeting between the two Grand Slam champions, their first encounter dating back eight years to the US Open, where Osaka emerged victorious in three sets. [2]
“I’ll have a chance to secure a revenge, hopefully,” Sabalenka told reporters, adding with a determined look, “I would like to play her.” Osaka, currently ranked No. 16, acknowledged Sabalenka’s position as the world’s top player. “Obviously she’s so consistent, she’s the No. 1 player in the world and it’s, for me, very motivating,” Osaka said. “I’m excited to play her, and I’m looking forward to it a lot.” [2]
The engagement news follows just days after Sabalenka publicly shared photos of her new ring. She jokingly addressed concerns about the diamond’s security, stating, “We double-checked if there is a possibility to lose the diamond, and there is none, so I was pretty confident wearing this ring, and it feels comfy, feels shiny.” [4]
Sabalenka has looked relaxed in her first two matches at Indian Wells, returning to competition after a five-week break following her loss to Elena Rybakina in the Australian Open final. She did not participate in the WTA 1000 events in the Middle East prior to Indian Wells. [2, 4]
The upcoming match against Osaka promises to be a compelling contest between two of the sport’s biggest stars. For Sabalenka, it’s a chance to avenge a past defeat and continue her impressive form. And, of course, to enjoy the glow of a newly-minted engagement. [2]
Sabalenka will face Osaka on Tuesday at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. The match is scheduled to be a daytime contest, offering fans a chance to witness a clash between two Grand Slam champions. [2]
What are your thoughts on Sabalenka’s engagement and her chances at Indian Wells? Share your predictions in the comments below.
