Aryna Sabalenka expressed deep disappointment after her loss to Coco Gauff in the French Open final, describing her performance as “terrible” and noting it was the most challenging match she had experienced in months. Despite having fought hard in the tournament, the on-court conditions were unfavorable, as wind played a significant role throughout the match. Sabalenka lost the final with a score of 6-7(5), 6-2, 6-4, and opted against offering traditional congratulations to her opponent, instead focusing on her own feelings of frustration.
In a candid post-match interview, Sabalenka reflected on her uncharacteristically high count of 70 unforced errors and the pressure she faced. She remarked that Gauff had capitalized on the circumstances better than she did, stating, “Coco, congrats in these tough conditions. You were the better player than me.” Sabalenka’s struggle with the mental aspects of the game was evident, as she compared the match to her previous showdown with Gauff at the U.S. Open.
After the match, Sabalenka mentioned that she felt overwhelmed by the conditions, saying, “I became overemotional.” Despite retaining her position as world No. 1, this defeat marked her second consecutive loss in a Grand Slam final this year. Her performance drew criticism from some observers, suggesting that Sabalenka’s intense self-criticism might not always serve her well.
However, Gauff rejected Sabalenka’s thoughts on the match, asserting that anything can happen in tennis, which may resonate with fans and players alike who see the unpredictable nature of the sport. Looking ahead, Sabalenka plans to take a break in Mykonos, hoping to recover from the disappointment and reflect on her game with a lighter spirit.
In an encouraging light, Sabalenka continues to be recognized as one of the top players in the world. By addressing her mental game and managing pressures, she has the potential to reclaim her best form in future tournaments. This moment can serve as a valuable lesson for her growth as a player.