Aryna Sabalenka Urges Critics to Stop Pressurizing Novak Djokovic in the Twilight of his Career

Currently into the fourth round, Aryna Sabalenka is seeking her first Roland Garros title this year.

Aryna Sabalenka Urges Critics to Stop Pressurizing Novak Djokovic in the Twilight of his Career

Aryna Sabalenka and Novak Djokovic (via X)

Aryna Sabalenka has come to the defense of Novak Djokovic, responding strongly to critics who question his longevity in the sport. The WTA World No. 1 made her stance clear during a press conference at Roland Garros, urging the public to respect Djokovic’s achievements and stop doubting his future.

Djokovic, now 38, continues to compete against much younger stars like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. While many focus on his age or occasional dips in form, Sabalenka emphasized that his physical and mental strength remain unmatched, allowing him to stay competitive at the highest level. Sabalenka said in her Roland Garros press conference:

You guys are trying to put as much pressure as you can on Novak. Leave him alone, look at him. He’s fit. He’s strong. Mentally and physically I think he’s ready to play another 2 or 3 years. I don’t know. He’s doing really well…Whenever he’s ready, whenever he’s healthy and fit, he’s there. He’s playing great tennis. Just leave him alone.

She praised his exceptional skill and commitment, drawing comparisons with other tennis greats like Rafael Nadal. Sabalenka noted that legends like Djokovic have set standards in the sport that deserve admiration, not constant scrutiny.

As Djokovic moved into the third round of the 2025 French Open without losing a set, his ambition remains clear. Fresh off a milestone 100th career title, the Serbian is eyeing his 25th Grand Slam crown—proving that he’s not finished making tennis history just yet.

Aryna Sabalenka sets up a showdown match with Amanda Anisimova

Belarusian tennis star Aryna Sabalenka delivered a dominant performance to continue her strong run at the 2025 French Open. The World No. 1 powered past Olga Danilovic in the third round with a convincing 6-2, 6-3 win. Her aggressive style and sharp focus proved too much for her opponent on the clay courts of Roland Garros.

Aryna Sabalenka Roland Garros French Open 2025
Aryna Sabalenka (image via Instagram/WTA)

Danilovic is known for rising to big occasions, but she couldn’t match Sabalenka’s level. The Belarusian star controlled the match from start to finish, showing why she’s considered a top contender for the title. Her confidence and intensity made a clear statement as she advanced to the next round.

Speaking after the match, Sabalenka reflected on how her competitive fire on court contrasts with her more relaxed personality off it. She mentioned the importance of balancing focus and enjoyment throughout her career. With her next match set against Amanda Anisimova, Sabalenka knows a tough test awaits.

Anisimova leads their head-to-head 5-2 and has previously reached the semifinals at Roland Garros. Her comfort on clay and past success make her a serious threat. With both players in strong form, their upcoming clash is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated battles of this year’s tournament.

Novak Djokovic’s French Open scheduling request snubbed

Novak Djokovic had hoped to avoid a scheduling conflict at the French Open, but his request was denied by the tournament organizers. The 24-time Grand Slam champion wanted his third-round match to be played during the day so he could watch the UEFA Champions League final between Inter Milan and Paris Saint-Germain.

Novak Djokovic Roland Garros French Open 2025 blister injury
Novak Djokovic receiving treatment for a toe blister (image via Idaho State Journal)

Following his straight-sets win over Corentin Moutet, Djokovic jokingly asked for a daytime slot. However, the organizers placed his next match in the night session on Court Philippe-Chatrier, set to start at 20:15 on Saturday, May 31—just before the football final begins.

Djokovic will take on Filip Misolic in the third round. Misolic advanced after a five-set victory over Denis Shapovalov. This matchup marks Djokovic’s first night session appearance since the Miami Open, and it may bring slightly different conditions to adjust to.

There was some concern among fans when Djokovic took a medical timeout during the third set against Moutet. But he later clarified that it was nothing serious and not a major issue. The Serbian star remains focused as he continues his campaign for a fourth French Open title.

Also Read: Jannik Sinner Reveals if He Wants His Fans to Dress up as ‘Foxes’ Instead of ‘Carrots’