Tennis world number one Aryna Sabalenka has sharply criticized sports journalists at the US Open in New York, slamming repeated questions regarding her off-court activities and lifestyle as a “joke.”
Sabalenka Slams US Open Media Over Lifestyle Questions
The reigning champion, currently chasing her third title at Flushing Meadows, addressed the media following her third-round victory on September 3, 2026. She pushed back against assumptions that brand sponsorships and marketing posts imply a lack of professional focus.
Dominant Court Performance Eclipsed by Press Room Clashes
According to reports from n-tv.de, the confrontation occurred during a post-match press conference in New York City. The 28-year-old top seed had just secured a dominant 6:1, 6:1 win over Russia’s Polina Yazenko to advance to the next round of the Grand Slam tournament.
When a reporter mentioned widespread attention surrounding parties and social activities during the week leading up to the major tournament, Sabalenka interrupted before the question could be finished.
The Defiant Response to Brand and Party Inquiries
“You guys are like a joke. Parties, fun, why are you even saying something like that? Why are you even thinking about it?” Sabalenka said, as reported by n-tv.de. “What kind of question is that? Just because I posted some activities with brands, you think that I’m partying and not training.”
Clarifications Offered Amid Ongoing Sporting Droughts
Following the initial interruption, the reporter clarified that no accusation was intended regarding excessive partying. Sabalenka concluded the exchange by telling media members to “think before you say something,” according to n-tv.de.
The tension surrounding her preparation follows a difficult stretch on the tour. Outlets covering the tournament noted that Sabalenka enters the New York fortnight navigating a sporting drought, having spent the past six months searching for a tournament victory.
Chasing the Flushing Meadows Trophy Under the Spotlight
Questions regarding her focus had already surfaced earlier in the week. Following her opening-round match, she addressed similar inquiries by asking why anyone would assume she lacked focus on tennis during the week before the tournament.
As the tournament progresses in New York, Sabalenka continues her campaign for another major trophy against a competitive field, with attention now turning toward her upcoming matches and how she manages the media spotlight away from the court.
Worth a look
