Aryna Sabalenka Returns to No. 1 in Women's Tennis

Aryna Sabalenka, the talented Belarusian tennis player, recently celebrated a significant achievement by securing the world No. 1 ranking in women’s tennis. This milestone came after a remarkable season where she showcased her skills by winning two Grand Slam titles: the Australian Open and the US Open. Despite facing a setback in the semi-finals of the WTA Finals against Coco Gauff, Sabalenka left Riyadh with the prestigious trophy for finishing the year at the top of the rankings.

Last year, Sabalenka held the No. 1 position for eight weeks but was ultimately overtaken by Iga Swiatek, who finished 2023 at the top. This year, however, Sabalenka’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary. She not only clinched the year-end No. 1 ranking but also added two WTA 1000 titles to her collection in Cincinnati and Wuhan. Reflecting on her season, Sabalenka expressed pride in her accomplishments, stating, "I’m proud of myself this season. I think I achieved a lot. There is no room for disappointment." As she embarks on her second term as world No. 1, she feels "mentally, more ready" for the challenges that lie ahead.

Her coach, Anton Dubrov, shared insights into Sabalenka’s journey and the mental fortitude required to maintain the top ranking. He emphasized that holding the No. 1 position is not merely about skill but also about maturity and adaptability. "I don’t think you can hold the No. 1 ranking, to be honest, but I think she’s more mature, to understand what you need to do to be on this level," Dubrov explained. He highlighted the pressure that comes with being No. 1, where opponents play with nothing to lose, making consistency crucial.

Dubrov recalled the first time he saw Sabalenka play at the age of 14 during a European team championship. He noted her determination and hard work, stating, "You never see her like, not trying. No matter how she is playing — she can play incredible, she can play not great — but she still will fight for it." Over the years, he has witnessed her growth, particularly in her willingness to adapt and improve her game. "If someone will tell her that she needs to do something, and she agrees, she’s the one who the very next day will do it," he remarked.

Sabalenka’s openness to change has been a key factor in her success. Dubrov mentioned that she is always willing to make adjustments as long as she is shown the benefits of those changes. This adaptability has allowed her to thrive in the competitive world of tennis. Since becoming her coach in 2020, Dubrov has played a significant role in her development, helping her secure three major titles and reach the top of the rankings twice.

Reflecting on their partnership, Sabalenka noted the importance of having a coach who understands her emotions and can help her navigate the pressures of the sport. "I was looking for someone smart and someone who will always be looking for something," she said. This mutual understanding has fostered a successful working relationship, allowing them to focus on continuous improvement.

Aryna Sabalenka’s journey to the top of women’s tennis is a testament to her hard work, resilience, and the strong support system she has in her coach, Anton Dubrov. As she prepares for the challenges of the upcoming season, her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere, highlighting the importance of dedication, adaptability, and the right guidance in achieving one’s goals.