Aryna Sabalenka revealed her 2026 US Open Nike kit (Getty Images)
Sabalenka had won 6-3, 7-6 (7-3), successfully defended her US Open crown and, in the process, become the first woman since Serena Williams in 2014 to win back-to-back women’s singles titles in New York. “I’ve always said that it’s really important to balance one’s life both on and off the court, because, on the court, it’s very intense and super aggressive, and there is no time for little, soft moments, and you have to be strong all the time.
I just cannot wait to play my first match,” Sabalenka said in quotes exclusively facilitated to TOI ahead of the tournament. “It (competition) always pushes you for the better,” Sabalenka said. I feel like this city also pushes you to work hard and stay motivated,” she said.
She had just served for the championship against Amanda Anisimova when the American’s backhand return went wide. That was it. The battle was over. “I think that’s the beauty of a sport. When there is someone chasing you or you have a target on your back, that just makes you stronger, and that really pushes you to work super hard, and that’s why I love sport. But then off the court, it’s all about having fun, doing things you like, just to feel a little bit more relaxed off the court. “I love a lot of things. First of all, I love the crowds here, and, you know, when they cheer for you, it’s the best feeling. I love to be in New York. I love to do some shopping when possible. I love to go for good dinners here. I love the city for two or three weeks.