Sabalenka reveals the worst part of being a tennis player

Aryna Sabalenka has achieved a stunning victory in her debut at the WTA Beijing against Renata Zarazúa, who could do little against the masterclass of the Belarusian player. Shortly after, the world number 2 attended a press conference and revealed what is the hardest part of being a tennis player, something that goes hand in hand with her strong personality.

In recent months, Sabalenka has experienced a crisis in results that has led to the loss of the WTA throne and to not winning any Grand Slam in 2026. This has caused many times to see a somewhat desperate Sabalenka on the court, with clear signs of exhaustion. In fact, in some press conferences, she has acknowledged that she needed to set tennis aside for a few days after a tough defeat. According to her, that demand she often places on herself is a handicap, and something she wishes to change.

Sabalenka analyzes her successful debut in Beijing

I am happy with the level I showed. There is not much to complain about. I am satisfied with my concentration and, overall, with my performance. So I am glad to have advanced.

Conditions of the court

It was a bit cold. The truth is that... I don’t know, I enjoyed playing. Maybe the balls were becoming a bit heavy. It was a somewhat intense physical effort. But, overall, I feel fine (smiling).

The hardest part of being a tennis player

This is both a positive and negative aspect of my personality: the fact that I always demand more from myself and expect more from myself. Sometimes that drives me to keep going, but other times it really... I don’t know, it exhausts me, leaves me without energy. Perhaps it's something I need to finally learn. Maybe I will manage it when I turn 30 or something. Sometimes I try hard to be less hard on myself.

Sabalenka reveals if she feels less pressure after the Grand Slam season ends

I think that, in general, we arrive a little better at Wimbledon, Roland Garros, the Australian Open, or the US Open. Everything depends on how you play at the Grand Slams. During the first half of this season, I did not perform well; I struggled with various aspects. I feel that this year, I am a bit fresher and, in a way, I expect a bit more from myself. I also try not to load myself with so many expectations and focus on myself. But, overall, yes: if the season goes well, in the end, you feel like you're lacking energy and strength to keep pushing, especially looking ahead to the Finals. Perhaps you are a bit more lenient with yourself. This season is another story, so I feel fresh and ready for action.

Message to Chinese fans

To be honest, I am incredibly surprised to see the stands almost full today, to see so many children cheering for me, bringing signs, being creative with gifts, and showing me their support. I am very grateful for that. I just want to send them lots of love and thank them from the bottom of my heart.

Equal pay in all ATP and WTA 1000 events in 2026

Equality between... Of course, I am happy about that. It’s something we have been fighting for. I think we all deserve to be paid the same. It’s good news.
I am quite sure that all the players —I don’t know about the men—, but all the women are super happy about that (smiling).

Opinion on the new Players' Council in Grand Slams

It’s incredible. It’s something that we probably all needed for a long time. Now we have our council; we have a way to express our opinion and convey the players' viewpoints. It’s incredible. Without a doubt, it will help improve everything for the future.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Sabalenka desvela la peor parte de ser tenista