Aryna Sabalenka, now a four-time Grand Slam champion and world No. 1, revealed that a pivotal conversation with Novak Djokovic at Wimbledon helped shape her mental approach for the 2025 U.S. Open. “At Wimbledon I spoke to Novak. I just wanted to know how he was preparing himself for those big matches — what was the focus and what was his mindset going into the match,” Sabalenka said.

The two champions spent nearly an hour discussing strategies and mindset. “So we talked for an hour probably, but with Novak you always can spend more than that talking and asking for advice,” she added.

Applying Djokovic’s mindset in New York

Heading into the final in New York, Sabalenka recalled Djokovic’s guidance and used it to center herself before the match. “And then later on, going to the US Open final, I remembered what he said, what he told me, and I think it helped me to get the title,” she said.

Her victory marked her second U.S. Open title and reinforced her reputation as one of the most mentally resilient players on tour.

A growing friendship and shared training sessions

Sabalenka and Djokovic have developed a close rapport, often training together and exchanging ideas. Prior to the Asian swing, they spent time in Greece, where Djokovic resides part-time. Their joint sessions were described as intense and competitive, pushing both athletes to elevate their performance.

Sabalenka’s openness to mentorship and her willingness to learn from one of the sport’s greatest players reflect her commitment to growth. As she noted, “I still have room to improve in literally everything.”

Novak Djokovic in 2025

Ranked world no.5, Djokovic played his last match on the 11^th

of October when he lost to world no.40 Valentin Vacherot 6-3 6-4 in the semifinal in Shanghai (draw).

During this season the Serbian owns a 35-11 win-loss record. The Serbian has won 1 title in Geneva. Novak reached the final in Miami.

He is also scheduled to play in Athens (Hellenic Championship) on the 2nd of November.

Aryna Sabalenka in 2025

Ranked world no.1, Sabalenka played her last match on the 11^th of October when she lost to world no.5 Jessica Pegula 2-6 6-4 7-6(2) in the semifinal in Wuhan (draw).

Until now, during this year the Belarussian owns an overall 59-11 win-loss record. The Belarussian conquered 4 titles in 2025 in Brisbane, Miami, Madrid and U.S. Open. Aryna was the finalist at the Australian Open, Indian Wells, Stuttgart and French Open.