Key Takeaways
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Sabalenka says she enjoys having the target on her back as world No. 1
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She enters the tournament with “no expectations” after recent setbacks
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The Belarusian highlights the rising competitiveness across the WTA Tour
Loving the challenge of being No. 1
Aryna Sabalenka returned to Cincinnati acknowledging the unique pressure of her position. “I love having the target on my back. I like to see the young generation looking up to me and get inspired by me,” she said. For Sabalenka, the ranking is less important than continuing to grow as a player and person.
Resetting after disappointment
Reflecting on recent struggles, Sabalenka admitted that expectations had weighed heavily. “I had huge expectations that I’d succeed in tournaments I desperately wanted, but my body stopped me,” she explained. She now approaches this stretch of the season with no expectations, focusing instead on competing and enjoying each challenge.
Rising competition on the WTA Tour
Sabalenka praised the depth of talent across the circuit. “The level definitely improved. There are no easy matches. The first round is also a tough round,” she noted, emphasizing that every player must perform at their best to avoid being overtaken.
Life in Cincinnati
Away from the court, Sabalenka has enjoyed renting a house and spending time in nature. She spoke about walking her dog and joked about his driving lessons. “He’s barking when someone does stupid things. He’s been a really good driver,” she laughed.
Sabalenka is preparing for the US Open but insists she will stay in the moment. She even revealed her dream of playing tennis in a mountain setting. “I would set up the court somewhere in the mountains, with a beautiful lake, so you perform and see mother nature,” she said.
WTA Cincinnati - Aryna Sabalenka's projected path
Aryna Sabalenka in 2026
At the moment ranked no.1, Aryna played her last match on the 8th of August when she was overcome by world no.18 Ekaterina Alexandrova 7-6(3) 4-6 6-4 in the 4th round in Toronto (draw).
Presently, during this year Aryna achieved a compiled 38-7 match record. Sabalenka clinched 3 titles in 2026 in Brisbane, Indian Wells and Miami.
