Aryna Sabalenka Collection

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Key Information
Full name: Aryna Siarhiejeuna Sabalenka
Nationality: Belarusian
Date of birth: 5 May 1998
Height: 6ft 0in / 182cm
Turned pro: 2015
Plays: Right-handed
Racket: Wilson Blade 98

 

Early Life and Journey to Tennis Stardom

Born on May 5, 1998, in Minsk, Belarus, Aryna Sabalenka was introduced to tennis in a unique way—her father, a former ice hockey player, noticed tennis courts while driving one day and encouraged Aryna to try the sport. Her love for tennis quickly took root, and by the age of six, she was training regularly at the National Tennis Academy in Minsk.

Sabalenka’s raw power and competitive edge were apparent from early on, and in 2015, she turned professional, starting her ascent on the ITF circuit. By 2017, she had cracked the WTA Top 100, cementing herself as one of tennis’s most promising young talents. Her tenacity was on full display in the 2017 Fed Cup, where she led Belarus to the final with wins over Top 20 players, including Sloane Stephens, putting the tennis world on notice.

 

Climbing the Ranks: Sabalenka’s Doubles Success

Sabalenka quickly demonstrated her versatility by excelling in doubles alongside Belgian partner Elise Mertens. The pair achieved the rare Sunshine Double in 2019, winning both the Indian Wells and Miami Open, a feat accomplished by only a select few in women’s doubles history. Their success peaked with victories at the 2019 US Open and 2021 Australian Open, propelling Sabalenka to the No. 1 doubles ranking in 2021.

Aryna Sabalenka Grand Slam Singles Title and Australian Open Victory

In 2023, Sabalenka entered the Australian Open in incredible form, coming off a title win in Adelaide without dropping a single set. She carried her momentum into Melbourne, advancing to her first Grand Slam singles final, where she faced Elena Rybakina. In a high-stakes match, Sabalenka claimed her first Grand Slam title, bringing Belarus its first major singles victory in a decade. This triumph elevated her to No. 2 in the WTA rankings, fulfilling a long-standing goal and inspiring fans worldwide.

Aryna Sabalenka Playing Style and Tennis Strategy

Standing at 6 feet tall, Aryna Sabalenka’s game is rooted in powerful serves and baseline domination. Known for her fierce forehand and backhand, she relentlessly pressures opponents with heavy shots. Her doubles experience has sharpened her net play, making her a versatile threat on the court. Although her powerful second serve has occasionally led to high double-fault counts, Sabalenka’s recent work with biomechanics specialists has improved her consistency, adding even more danger to her already potent game.

Her preferred racquet, the Wilson Blade 98, is a perfect match for her aggressive playstyle. Featuring Wilson’s StableFeel technology, the racquet delivers a firm, controlled feel that allows Sabalenka to strike the ball with precision while maintaining the power she’s known for.

Aryna Sabalenka Overcoming Challenges and Career Struggles

Sabalenka’s career has been marked by resilience. The tragic passing of her father in 2019 deeply affected her but also motivated her to push forward. The 2022 Wimbledon ban on Belarusian and Russian players, coupled with political scrutiny, brought additional challenges. Despite these difficulties, Sabalenka persevered, reaching the US Open final in 2023. This journey, highlighted in Netflix’s Break Point, showcases her mental strength and commitment to her goals.

 

What Racket Does Aryna Sabalenka Use?

Aryna Sabalenka endorses the Wilson Blade, a racquet known for its balance of power and control. This racquet suits Sabalenka’s powerful baseline game, with StableFeel technology for a solid feel during ball contact and enhanced flex for better control. Sabalenka’s Wilson Blade 98 has been instrumental in helping her strike powerful winners with accuracy.

Aryna Sabalenka’s Rivalry with Iga Swiatek

One of the most exciting emerging rivalries in women’s tennis is between Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek. Both players consistently battle for the world No. 1 ranking, with each encounter showcasing contrasting styles: Sabalenka’s power against Swiatek’s precision. Their head-to-head matchups have become fan favourites, adding a thrilling layer to Sabalenka’s career trajectory.

 

Aryna Sabalenka’s Personal Life and Background

Sabalenka has a tiger tattoo on her left arm, symbolizing her fierce spirit and resilience—a nod to her birth year, the Year of the Tiger. Her motto, "Fight, keep fighting, on every single point," encapsulates her approach to the game. Her boyfriend, Konstantin Koltsov, a former Olympic hockey player, also provides support off the court, helping her balance her career with her personal life.

 

What’s Next for Aryna Sabalenka in Tennis?

With her first Grand Slam singles title secured and a career-high ranking of world No. 2, Aryna Sabalenka is determined to achieve even greater heights. Her rivalry with Iga Swiatek, recent improvements to her game, and her unbreakable spirit make her a leading contender in upcoming Grand Slam tournaments. Sabalenka’s legacy is already forming, but with each match, she continues to show that her journey to the top is far from over.

 

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