Belarusian tennis star Aryna Sabalenka is gearing up to make a comeback after being sidelined due to injury, with her eyes set on the hard courts for the summer starting this week in Washington. Amidst her return to action, Sabalenka has strategically chosen to forego the Paris Olympics, a decision that has sparked discussion about her potential advantage heading into the US Open.
In a recent statement, Sabalenka expressed her belief that her absence from the Olympics does not necessarily put her in a better position for the final Grand Slam event of the year. With competitors like Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff actively participating in the Olympics, the world No. 3 remains wary of the talented field that awaits her at Flushing Meadows. “I still have a long way to go to the US Open. I believe they (Swiatek and Gauff) will be ready when the time comes,” Sabalenka remarked.
While Sabalenka is making her way to the US for the hard court tournaments, players like Swiatek and Gauff are currently battling it out on the clay courts of Roland Garros for Olympic glory. Interestingly, Elena Rybakina, who was initially set to compete in Paris, had to withdraw at the last minute due to an unexpected illness, adding another twist to the ongoing tennis saga.
Sabalenka defended her decision to skip the Olympics, citing the demanding schedule as a major factor in her choice. She acknowledged that transitioning swiftly from grass to clay and then to hard courts could have taken a toll on her physical and mental well-being. “Taking a short break was crucial for me. I faced many challenges since March, and it was necessary to recharge both mentally and physically. I feel refreshed and fully prepared to return to the court,” Sabalenka explained.
As Sabalenka prepares for her upcoming matches, she remains confident in her readiness for the challenges that lie ahead. With a strong focus on her physical and mental fitness, she is determined to make a mark on the hard courts this summer and prove her mettle against the toughest opponents. The tennis world eagerly awaits her return to action, as the stage is set for an exciting season filled with intense competition and thrilling performances.
