Sabalenka: "I hate losing, it's the worst feeling for an athlete"

Iker Jiménez | 27 Apr 2026 | 16.53

Sabalenka: "I hate losing, it's the worst feeling for an athlete". Source: Getty

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Aryna Sabalenka once again showed why she is dominating the circuit in 2026. The Belarusian had to endure a tough battle to overcome Naomi Osaka 6-7, 6-3, and 6-2 in the round of 16 of the Mutua Madrid Open, in a highly demanding match that tested her competitive character.

The reigning champion maintains a spectacular streak with only one defeat so far this season and remains on track to defend her title at the Caja Mágica. After conquering Indian Wells and Miami, Sabalenka is now aiming for her third Masters 1000 of the year. Against Osaka, she had to come from behind in the first set and elevate her level in crucial moments to assert her dominance.

Level of play against Osaka

"I think I played quite well. I dropped my level a bit towards the end of the first set and gave away that tie-break too easily. But overall, I'm happy. When she pushed me, I was able to produce incredible shots and play at a high level. So, I'm satisfied. It also made me happy that she presented that challenge because it allowed me to fight, suffer a bit, and find solutions during the match. Overall, happy."

Change in playing conditions in Madrid

"I like both (Madrid and Rome). At this stage of my career, I enjoy every surface. I like the process of adapting and finding the keys on each one. Here, I try to put more spin on the ball and take advantage of the high bounce. Basically, I play my tennis, but with a bit more spin."

Winning streak

"I don't think much about it, but I suppose it's easy to count. I just try to play each match as best as possible. That's my focus. The feeling of losing is never forgotten. It's unforgettable. Just like winning. I hate losing; it's the worst feeling for an athlete."

Improvement in her serve

"I think it's a combination of the mental and the technical. First, I had to find technical solutions in my serve, and once I found them, the mental aspect improved because I shifted focus. Now I can make double faults, but it doesn't affect me. I know exactly what went wrong and how to adjust it. I believe I'm now a more complete player, better at adapting to different conditions and opponents. That's one of my strengths."

Virus in the tournament

"So far, so good. I've heard I have to avoid tacos (laughs). I've been eating the same since the start of the tournament, not spending too much time in the facility, taking vitamin C... and hope to keep it that way. I'm having chicken breast with rice and salad. Very simple."

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Sabalenka: "Odio perder, es la peor sensación para un deportista"