Aryna Sabalenka reveals her motivations during difficult matches after progressing to the Australian Open Round of 16
Aryna Sabalenka has a hard fought victory over Clara Tauson at an intense third round match at the Australian Open 2025.
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Aryna Sabalenka faced Denmark’s Clara Tauson in an intense match at the third round of the Australian Open 2025. The Belarusian emerged victorious with a 7(7)-6(5), 6-4 score over her opponent. After the match, Sabalenka appeared for the Australian Open Press Conference.
In this interview Sabalenka spoke about the various factors that contribute to her motivation during challenging matches such as today’s. Sabalenka emphasized that her mental state plays a critical role in her performance, particularly when the match becomes tough and competitive.
I remind myself how much I wanted it when I was a kid…Then I look in the box. I see all those people sitting there, cheering me up, helping me to achieve my dreams…I can’t just give up.
Aryna Sabalenka via Australian Open Press Conference
One key element the World No. 1 mentions is self-affirmation. Sabalenka remarked that she consistently reminds herself of her strength and determination, recalling the journey and hard work that led her to this point in her career.
Aryna Sabalenka on what motivates her during a tough match:
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) January 17, 2025
“I remind myself how much I wanted it when I was a kid.. Then I look in the box. I see all those people sitting there, cheering me up, helping me to achieve my dreams… I can’t just give up”❤️
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Moreover, the support from the crowd significantly enhances her drive. The presence of her team in the player’s box adds another layer of encouragement. Sabalenka noted that she feels compelled to fight not just for herself but also for those who love and support her.
Aryna Sabalenka had a tough third round match at the Australian Open 2025
Aryna Sabalenka, who started off her 2025 season strong winning the Brisbane International title, also spoke about how challenging today’s third round match was. In the first set, both players struggled to maintain their serves, resulting in eight breaks. Sabalenka secured the set by converting her fifth set point in a tiebreak, culminating it with a powerful forehand.
Despite these initial setbacks, Sabalenka said that she found a source of mental strength after securing the first set. This victory in a tough opening set provided a boosted her confidence, reinforcing her belief that she could overcome the difficulties she faced.
Well I think uh winning that the first set and it was very difficult set gave me a little bit more uh mental strength that I can I can win uh win this match even without serving my best.
Aryna Sabalenka via Australian Open Press Conference
The second set mirrored the first in its competitive intensity, with Tauson tying the score again after Sabalenka solidified a break for a 4-2 lead. At 4-4, both players came out trading winners until the Belarusian won the break during the match’s longest game. Sabalenka emerged victorious in this wild battle which lasted more than two hours at Rod Laver Arena.
This match showed us that the road ahead for Sabalenka to claim her third consecutive Australian Open title is going to be a tough one. The three-time Grand Slam champion will have to battle out fierce competitors on her way.
Cruising through the first two rounds defeating Sloane Stephens and Jessica Bouzas Maneiro, and overcoming Clara Tauson in a hard fought victory, Sabalenka now advances to the fourth round where she will face Russia’s Mirra Andreeva, who she defeated recently at the Brisbane International semifinals.
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Anubhav Bajpeyee
(228 Articles Published)