In the pulsating world of professional tennis, where rivalries fuel epic showdowns, Aryna Sabalenka, the world No. 1, recently let fans in on a lighthearted moment that underscored her playful contrast with rival Iga Swiatek. Fresh off her commanding victory at the 2025 Madrid Open, where she defeated Coco Gauff 6-3, 7-6(3) to claim her third title of the season, Sabalenka shared a behind-the-scenes anecdote that had the tennis world chuckling. The story, centered on a peek into Swiatek’s locker, revealed not just a difference in their preparation styles but also Sabalenka’s self-deprecating charm. “I mean, I’m not like Iga, you know why, guys?” she said with a grin, setting the stage for a tale that’s as much about camaraderie as it is about competition.
The setting was the player locker room at Madrid’s Caja Magica, where Sabalenka, basking in her 20th tour-level title, was unwinding after a grueling two-week campaign. As cameras followed her post-match routine—cool-down stretches, treatment, and chats with her team—she was asked about her shoe supply. The Belarusian, known for her explosive power and candid humor, admitted to having just two pairs on hand, having forgotten another. “I think this one and one more? It was four? I had four and I only used two,” she said, laughing at her own oversight. Then came the punchline: a glance at Swiatek’s locker revealed a meticulously arranged collection of eight or nine pairs of shoes. “I looked at her locker and there was like, under the locker was nine, I think nine or eight pairs of shoes,” Sabalenka recounted. “And I was like, ‘Yeah, someone is really professional and someone is just me.’ So bad, I am!”
This anecdote, delivered with Sabalenka’s infectious energy, highlights the contrasting personalities of the WTA’s top two players. Swiatek, the world No. 2 and five-time Grand Slam champion, is renowned for her methodical approach. Her locker, stocked with enough footwear to cover every court condition, reflects a preparation style that leaves nothing to chance. Sabalenka, by contrast, thrives on instinct and adaptability, her carefree attitude endearing her to fans. “I’m not rushing the point and I know I can stay in the point for how long I need,” she said of her clay court game, a confidence that carried her to Madrid glory despite her shoe shortage. The story, shared widely on social media, sparked a wave of reactions, with one fan posting, “Aryna’s chaos vs. Iga’s order is the rivalry we didn’t know we needed!”
The Madrid Open set the stage for this moment, with Sabalenka’s victory over Gauff marking a high point in her 2025 season. Swiatek, the defending champion, fell in the semifinals to Gauff, missing a chance to reclaim her title and set up a rematch of their 2024 final, where Swiatek won 6-2, 6-3. Now, both players are gearing up for the Italian Open in Rome, starting May 6, as a final tune-up before the French Open. Sabalenka, who feels “super motivated” after Madrid, leads the top half of the Rome draw, while Swiatek, planning to “chill” before intensifying preparations, anchors the bottom. Their rivalry, marked by thrilling clashes like last year’s Madrid epic, promises more fireworks.
Sabalenka’s lighthearted jab at her own professionalism also reflects a growing warmth between her and Swiatek. Once distant, their relationship has thawed, with joint practices in Abu Dhabi and TikTok collaborations at the 2024 WTA Finals signaling a “more chill” dynamic. “I have to say she’s a really nice person,” Sabalenka said of Swiatek, noting their off-court bond. This camaraderie doesn’t dull their on-court intensity—Sabalenka is 1-5 against Swiatek on clay but had match points in their 2024 Madrid final. “I hope she’ll be back in the finals in her best shape,” Sabalenka said, eyeing another showdown.
As Sabalenka prepares for Rome, her locker room tale serves as a reminder of her unique charisma. While Swiatek’s precision sets a high bar, Sabalenka’s authenticity resonates just as deeply. “To be called the best player in the world, that means everything,” she once said, reflecting on her No. 1 ranking. Whether she’s dominating with her forehand or poking fun at her own forgetfulness, Sabalenka’s journey captivates. With the clay season in full swing, fans await the next chapter in this rivalry, where professionalism meets personality in a clash for the ages.
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