From Tennis Struggles to World No. 1: Aryna Sabalenka’s Journey to Success

Aryna Sabalenka, once at the end of her rope with her tennis game, triumphantly finished 2024 as the World No. 1. In an exclusive interview with Tracey Holmes before the Australian Open, the resilient Belarusian opens up about overcoming life’s challenges and emerging stronger than ever to tackle the demands of professional sports.

Originally hailing from Minsk, Belarus, the rising star clinched the WTA Newcomer of the Year award in 2018. Quickly climbing the ranks, by 2021 she had secured the world No. 1 spot in doubles and No. 2 in singles, accumulating an impressive 23 titles and over $46 million in prize money across both disciplines. Her inspiring journey culminated in claiming the prestigious year-end top singles position, solidifying her status among tennis greats.

As the reigning two-time Australian Open champion, Sabalenka is set to kick off 2025 with newfound confidence, bolstered by her recent triumphs and resilience in the face of adversities. Despite facing personal tragedies and physical setbacks in 2024, including the loss of her ex-partner and injuries that sidelined her from major competitions, Sabalenka’s unwavering spirit propelled her to victory at the US Open and other significant tournaments.

Reflecting on her arduous path to success, Sabalenka emphasizes the importance of perseverance and dedication. She attributes her growth to learning from setbacks, with each loss serving as a valuable lesson in her evolution as a top-tier athlete. Her mental fortitude and relentless work ethic have been instrumental in her rise to the pinnacle of professional tennis.

While navigating the competitive landscape of elite sports, Sabalenka acknowledges the pressures and challenges that come with the territory. Balancing physical prowess with mental agility is crucial for sustained success in the grueling world of professional athletics. Embracing setbacks as opportunities for growth, Sabalenka emphasizes the need for resilience and self-belief in overcoming obstacles.

Beyond the tennis court, Sabalenka grapples with the intersection of sports and politics, a reality that often imposes external pressures on athletes. In the wake of geopolitical tensions impacting sporting events, Sabalenka advocates for the separation of sports from political agendas, emphasizing the role of sports as a unifying force rather than a battleground for divisive ideologies.

Despite her meteoric rise and numerous accolades, Sabalenka remains grounded in her roots and family values. Tragically losing her father in 2019, she yearns for more time with her loved ones, underscoring the fleeting nature of life and the importance of cherishing moments with family amidst the whirlwind of competitive athletics.

As Sabalenka continues to soar to new heights in her tennis career, her journey serves as a testament to resilience, perseverance, and the enduring power of the human spirit in overcoming challenges both on and off the court.

Related: Discover Naomi Osaka’s path to inner peace

Related: Explore Anna Kalinskaya’s pursuit of excellence

For more inspiring stories and exclusive features, grab your copy of the January 2025 issue of Harper’s BAZAAR Australia / New Zealand.