Aryna Sabalenka, the world No. 1, entertained fans with a lighthearted remark about Rafael Nadal ahead of his tribute ceremony at Roland-Garros. After her dominant first-round victory, Sabalenka playfully suggested she would try to catch Nadal and ask for tips on how to win the tournament.

During her post-match interview, Sabalenka praised Nadal’s work ethic and the inspiration he has provided to countless players. She humorously added that she would attempt to get a few pieces of advice from the 14-time French Open champion, hoping to unlock the secrets of his clay-court dominance.

Sabalenka has never reached the final at Roland-Garros, but she remains one of the top contenders this year. With Nadal’s legendary status at the tournament, her joke resonated with fans who recognize his unparalleled success on the Parisian clay.

Sabalenka at the French Open, ranking, and results in 2025

At the moment ranked no.1, Aryna owns a composed 35-6 match record in 2025. Sabalenka is playing at the moment at the French Open where she overcame the world no.75 Kamilla Rakhimova 6-1 6-0

Aryna clinched 3 titles in 2025 in Brisbane, Miami and Madrid. Aryna reached the final at the Australian Open, in Indian Wells (BNP Paribas Open) and in Stuttgart (Porsche Tennis Grand Prix).

Aryna won 20 titles in her career: 15 on hard courts, 3 on clay courts and 2 on indoor courts. (See the list of her titles)