Aryna Sabalenka’s Roaring Journey to the Miami Open Final with a Delightful Backstage Moment
Aryna Sabalenka is proving why she’s the World No.1, showcasing a dazzling performance by reaching consecutive finals in the prestigious Sunshine Double. The three-time Grand Slam champion effortlessly overcame Italy’s Jasmine Paolini, securing her spot in the Miami Open final for the first time. After a challenging period in Doha and Dubai, following her Australian Open final setback against Madison Keys, Sabalenka is once more ready to dominate the court. However, before the intense showdown in Miami, Sabalenka found herself in a heartwarming moment of laughter, courtesy of her adorable goddaughter.
Following her commanding straight-set victory over Paolini (6-2, 6-2) in the semifinals, Sabalenka shared an amusing interview with Tennis Channel. Alongside her was a charming guest — her goddaughter. When asked by the host, “Who’s this magnificent smile in the yellow?” Sabalenka joyfully introduced her little companion, saying, “She’s my goddaughter, guys.”
The host, curious about the young girl’s opinion on Sabalenka’s performance, asked, “Your godmom very good today?” The little girl nodded in agreement, prompting Sabalenka to laugh and affirm, “She said yes. If she said yes, then yeah, I played well.” This delightful interaction was further enriched by the child’s playful antics, providing a much-needed lighthearted moment amidst the competitive atmosphere.
Sabalenka’s Fiery Focus and Tactical Play
Discussing her match against Paolini, Sabalenka expressed immense satisfaction with her performance, stating, “I think I played an incredible match and I’m super happy that I was able to focus on my serve. It was a great performance from me and it’s always tough battles against Jasmine, but I think today I just brought another level and I hope I’ll be able to do the same in the finals.” When questioned about her intense focus, the US Open champion added, “I think I was so focused and I think I was just focusing on myself and everything went smoothly.”
Sabalenka has now joined an elite group of only six players who have reached the finals of both Indian Wells and the Miami Open in the same season. This illustrious list includes tennis greats like Kim Clijsters, Maria Sharapova, Victoria Azarenka, Iga Swiatek, and Elena Rybakina.
Anticipation Builds for the Final Clash Against Jessica Pegula
Despite her impressive journey, Sabalenka’s mission is far from accomplished. Next, she faces the formidable Jessica Pegula, who has been in remarkable form. In a press conference, Sabalenka reflected on her season’s consistency, noting that aside from a couple of early hiccups in February, she has been performing at an exceptional level. “I’d say that — I don’t know, you know. It’s very tough to bring your best tennis every time you’re playing there. Like, anyway, you’re struggling with something. I think the way that I was able to adjust to different, let’s say, issues of the game, and the way that I was able to fight no matter what, I felt like I’m definitely on a pretty high level right now,” she commented.
As she prepares for the final against Pegula, Sabalenka remains optimistic and eager to learn from past experiences, “Outside of February, that’s an incredible season, even though I had those tough finals. You know, we never lose. We only learn lessons. I’m really happy that I was able to give myself another opportunity, another final to learn the lesson finally and to get the trophy.”
With Pegula coming off a hard-fought victory over 19-year-old sensation Alexandra Eala, the upcoming final promises to be a thrilling encounter. As Sabalenka leads their head-to-head record 6-2, the question remains: Will Pegula avenge her previous loss and clinch her second WTA title of the season, or will Sabalenka capture her first Miami Open trophy? Share your thoughts in the comments below.