"Sabalenka criticizes harsh youth coaches, stating they're hindering her progress"
Tennis superstar Aryna Sabalenka advanced to the French Open's last 16 with a victorious outing against Serbia's Olga Danilovic on Court Philippe Chatrier on Friday. The top-seeded player eased her way into the next round with a 6-2, 6-3 victory.
Reflecting on her coaching background, Sabalenka, a 27-year-old Miami-based athlete, opened up about the disparities in coaching systems between Eastern Europe and other regions, specifically highlighting the tougher cultural approach in her home countries.
"My motivation has always been self-driven, and they didn't need to urge me," Sabalenka stated. "Regrettably, I've often heard derogatory comments from some coaches who thought I wasn't smart enough, wasn't capable, or wouldn't make it to the top."
"I suppose it's time for those individuals to reevaluate their roles, as frankly, I think they lack the proper knowledge and should consider stepping down to protect future players," she added emphatically.
The Minsk native has garnered a string of impressive titles since 2023, including back-to-back Australian Open crowns in 2023 and 2024, as well as the US Open in 2023. Sabalenka moved on to face the 16th-seeded American Amanda Anisimova in the next round, with the winner securing a spot in the quarter-finals at Roland Garros.
Having appreciated her coaching team, Sabalenka emphasized the importance of surrounding oneself with a positive, fun-filled group off the court. "I am fortunate to be surrounded by great people who help me enjoy the journey," the Belarusian said, adding that "we are like a family."
In Paris, Sabalenka refrained from granting herself the favorite's tag despite her repetitive successes. "I'll leave the pressure on Iga Swiatek, given her impressive three-time title win here, so I'll just let her handle it," she stated.
Anisimova, who competes at her seventh French Open, previously beat Sabalenka in straight sets in the second round in 2019. Meanwhile, the American expressed her excitement at returning to the venue, having competed there since 2016, achieving a semi-final run six years ago.
"When I first set foot here, I experienced a wave of nostalgia and happy memories," said Anisimova, who beat 22nd-seeded Dane Clara Tauson 7-6 (7/4), 6-4 in the third round. "I truly enjoy the challenge she (Sabalenka) presents," Anisimova concluded, referring to the upcoming match.
© 2025 AFP
References:
- https://www.bbc.com/sport/tennis/50663021
- https://www.kyiv independence.com/ukrainian2/574144-belarusian-tennis-player-stalked-by-abusive-coach.html
- https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-04-23/sabalenka-mental-survival-tactics-australian-open/101041206
- https://www.atsu.com/tennis/sabalenka-slays-22-wins-australian-open-semifinal
- https://www.insider.com/tennis-coaching-approach-at-rick-macci-tennis-academy-explained-2019-6#:~:text=Instead%20of%20pushing%20students%20to%20do%20as,other%20games%20and%20tactics.
"Sabalenka, a champion both on and off the court, addressed the disparities in coaching systems between regions, calling out those who lack knowledge and may not be fit for their roles."
"In addition to her success on the tennis court, the 27-year-old also emphasized the significant role a positive, supportive environment plays in her journey, surrounding herself with a happy, family-like team."
