Aryna Sabalenka continues to showcase her impressive form, having advanced to at least the quarterfinals in every clay event she has participated in during the 2025 season. When addressing the potential pressures of being the top seed in upcoming competitions, Sabalenka exuded confidence during a recent pre-tournament press conference.
When asked about the challenges of maintaining her No. 1 ranking compared to the initial climb to it, Sabalenka expressed her eagerness to face the challenge head-on. “Honestly, I just love it so much!” she stated, embracing the idea of having a target on her back. She described the pursuit from her rivals as a motivating factor, adding, “I take it as a challenge. Every time I go out there, I feel like, okay, let’s go. Let’s see who is ready for the pressure moments.”
This positive mindset could be pivotal as Sabalenka prepares to kick off her campaign at Roland Garros, where she is set to face world No. 75 Kamilla Rakhimova in the first round. With her strong track record on clay, the tennis community eagerly anticipates how she will navigate the pressures and expectations that come with being the frontrunner in the tournament.
The hopeful narrative surrounding Sabalenka’s ambitions paints a picture of a determined athlete ready to tackle any challenge, making her a player to watch as the tournament progresses.