Former US Open champion, Andy Roddick, acknowledges Aryna Sabalenka’s remarkable journey, stating she has every right to consider herself the best player in women’s tennis currently. Roddick praises Sabalenka’s resilience, particularly after facing challenges with her serve in 2022, and commends her dedication to improvement, leading to back-to-back Australian Open triumphs.
In 2023, Sabalenka transformed her game by hiring a biomechanics coach, resulting in a sensational season. She reached the finals of all six Grand Slam events, winning the Australian Open and finishing as a runner-up at the US Open. Despite Iga Swiatek’s achievements, including reaching world No. 1, Sabalenka’s consistent performances garnered attention.
The 2024 season started strong for Sabalenka, securing a runner-up finish at the Brisbane International and successfully defending her Australian Open title. In contrast, Swiatek faced a surprising third-round exit. Roddick lauds Sabalenka’s progress, emphasizing her right to claim the top spot in women’s tennis.
Sabalenka, now eyeing further Grand Slam victories, expresses confidence in her ability to perform on any surface. Despite previous setbacks at the French Open, Sabalenka aims to make a strong impact in 2024. Her focus remains unwavering, and she believes continued hard work will yield success on clay and grass.
Reflecting on Sabalenka’s journey, Roddick emphasizes her impressive run, making the semifinals or better in the last six majors. He acknowledges the unexpected nature of her ascent, considering her struggles just 15 months ago, showcasing Sabalenka’s dedication and mental fortitude.
As Sabalenka sets her sights on the French Open, the tournament where she has had the least success, the tennis world anticipates whether she can achieve her goal of securing the elusive title and potentially aiming for a Calendar Grand Slam. Sabalenka’s journey continues to captivate fans, proving that with determination and resilience, a player can redefine their trajectory in the world of tennis.
