Aryna Sabalenka, leading the WTA Tour with the most wins (29) this year, was unexpectedly defeated by Sofia Kenin during the second round of the 2023 Italian Open on Thursday, May 11. The Belarusian player admitted to feeling drained of energy and expressed her need to recharge in order to make a strong comeback.
Recent Tournament Performances
In a clash between Australian Open champions, World No. 134 Kenin bested Sabalenka in an hour and 38 minutes, with a score of 7-6(4), 6-2. Sabalenka has enjoyed much success in 2023, and her loss in Rome marks her first opening-round exit. Despite her defeat, Sabalenka still holds a 29-5 record this year. In the Madrid Open, she emerged victorious against World No. 1 Iga Swiatek, while Kenin was eliminated in the first round.
2023 Season Overview
Sabalenka kicked off her 2023 season with consecutive titles at the Adelaide International 1 and the Australian Open. Her 13-match winning streak came to an end at the Dubai Tennis Championships, where she lost to Barbora Krejcikova. Sabalenka went on to compete in the BNP Paribas Open, the WTA 1000 tournament in Miami, and Stuttgart Open but was unable to secure a win consistently.
Thoughts on Belarusians Playing Amid War
Aryna Sabalenka frequently addresses the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine and its impact on the tennis world. Recently, she said that those who disliked Russians and Belarusians continue to do so and added that there is nothing she can personally do to change their opinion.
