Aryna Sabalenka, the top-ranked women’s player, is bouncing back just days after her intense Australian Open final against Madison Keys. Although she fell short of becoming the first woman since Martina Hingis to win three consecutive Australian Open titles, Sabalenka is embracing the opportunity to regroup and enjoy life.
Despite her best efforts, Sabalenka ultimately fell to Madison Keys in a gripping three-set match, finishing at 6-3, 2-6, 7-5. Following the match, she vented her frustration by throwing her racket, but she quickly regained her composure and delivered a strong runner-up speech.
Sabalenka even garnered a laugh from the audience with a cheeky remark aimed at her coaches.
"There definitely was a bit of frustration, because I was so close to achieve something crazy. When you’re out there, you’re fighting, but it seems like everything (is not) going the way you really want (it) to go," Sabalenka said.
"I just needed to throw those negative emotions at the end, just so I could give a speech not stand there being disrespectful. I was just trying to let it go and be a good person." she added.
Aryna Sabalenka enjoying an ideal vacation
With the Australian Open now completed, Sabalenka has embraced a well-deserved break.
On Thursday afternoon, she posted several swimsuit photos on Instagram, captioning them "Ideal rest day." In some other photos, she can be seen enjoying a meal and an ice cream.
Sabalenka has earned a well-deserved break from the court, which will allow her to recharge. In the lead-up to the French Open in May, she will have ample opportunity to focus on her practice sessions.
With three Grand Slam singles titles to her name, she is certainly a strong contender for all the Grand Slams coming later this year, and many will likely view her as the favourite.