(Video) Aryna Sabalenka demonstrates her dancing skills after opening her Australian Open title defense against Sloane Stephens
Aryna Sabalenka got past former US Open champion Sloane Stephens in straight sets to begin her Australian Open title defense.
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Aryna Sabalenka showed off her dance moves (via Tennis.com and X)
Aryna Sabalenka had a strong start to her Australian Open title defense. She defeated Sloane Stephens 6-3, 6-2 in the first round. After the match, Sabalenka gave a brief yet fun on-court interview.
The interview started with Aryna Sabalenka expressing her gratitude to the audience for their enthusiastic support. She further discussed the difficulty of playing against a former US Open Champion, and also admitted that it wasn’t her best performance but she was satisfied to win in straight sets.
Now they have proof that I am the worst dancer!
Aryna Sabalenka via Australian Open Press
Sabalenka then reflected on her eighth appearance at Melbourne Park, mentioning the feeling of familiarity and comfort akin to home. She then spoke about a dancing tradition that has developed during her visits to Australia, sharing humorous moments about her dancing skills.
Aryna #Sabalenka e Jelena Dokic inscenano un ballo 💃 #tennis | #AusOpen | #AO25pic.twitter.com/ws9vq56Iby
— Luca Fiorino (@FiorinoLuca) January 12, 2025
Aryna Sabalenka’s dance moves have gained a lot of traction, with the Belarusian often posting videos on social media of her dancing with her team. The highlight of this interaction was perhaps when towards the end of it, Sabalenka danced, along with her interviewer on court. The audience also joined them in this fun moment and cheered along.
Aryna Sabalenka aims for a third consecutive Australian Open title
Aryna Sabalenka had a phenomenal 2024 season. The season culminated with her being crowned the WTA year-end world number one for the first time in her career. She secured two Grand Slam titles at the Australian Open and US Open last year. Her consistent performances throughout the year also included victories at the Cincinnati Open and Wuhan Open.
The Belarusian started off her 2025 season on a strong note. In the final of the Brisbane International, she overcame a strong challenge from Polina Kudermetova, ultimately securing the her first title of the season.
Aryna Sabalenka will next face Spain’s Jessica Bouzas Maneiro in the second round of the Australian Open at 15th January. At the Australian Open, Sabalenka is eyeing for a hattrick, a feat which only five women have accomplished in the Open Era.
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Anubhav Bajpeyee
(206 Articles Published)