Aryna Sabalenka Secures Victory in Purple Group at WTA Finals in Riyadh, Eyes Semifinals with Team-Oriented Mindset
Aryna Sabalenka took a major step toward the WTA Finals semifinals in Riyadh, delivering a strong performance in the Purple Group. The world No. 1 from Belarus defeated Italy’s Jasmine Paolini in straight sets, 6-3, 7-5, in a hard-fought contest that tested her composure and tactical adaptability. Despite some tense moments, including facing a set point in the second set, Sabalenka held her ground, finding an impressive cross-court backhand to pull through the match.
This victory positions Sabalenka favorably within the group standings and serves as a testament to her consistency at the top level. At 26 years old, she’s had an extraordinary season, capturing her place as the WTA’s top-ranked player, a milestone she credited largely to her team. In the post-match press conference, Sabalenka shared an emotional tribute to those who have supported her on her journey, emphasizing that her success is a collective achievement.
“I’m incredibly proud of what I’ve accomplished, but it’s not just about me—it’s about my team,” Sabalenka expressed. “We’ve faced so many obstacles together, and to now be at this level, playing high-quality tennis, is a result of everyone’s efforts. Reaching No. 1 in the world doesn’t just reflect my work but is an accomplishment shared by my entire team. Every day I appreciate what they’ve invested in my career, and their support motivates me to keep pushing forward.”
### A Steady, Determined Approach in Riyadh
In her match against Paolini, Sabalenka demonstrated her characteristic power and resilience, qualities that have been pivotal in her climb to the top of women’s tennis. Although she initially took control in the first set with her signature aggressive style, Paolini proved to be a tough opponent, challenging Sabalenka’s pace and pushing her to adapt her approach. Sabalenka secured the first set 6-3 with some fierce baseline shots and unreturnable serves, but the second set turned into a battle of wills as Paolini raised her game.
The Italian, known for her agility and scrappy defensive style, showcased her ability to cover the court efficiently and kept Sabalenka under pressure with consistent, deep returns. At 4-5 in the second set, Sabalenka found herself at a crucial point in the match when she faced a set point. Here, she managed to pull off an impressive cross-court backhand that turned the tide, allowing her to close out the set 7-5 and secure the win.
Reflecting on the challenging moments of the match, Sabalenka credited Paolini for her tenacity and ability to sustain pressure, praising the Italian’s skill and resilience. “The match was really tough, not just the last part,” Sabalenka acknowledged. “Jasmine is a great player; she constantly puts pressure on you and moves exceptionally well. People don’t always realize how strong her serve is, but she kept me on my toes. I’m happy with my performance and especially the way I avoided a third set. Things could have become even more difficult from there.”
Maintaining her composure in those high-stress moments is something Sabalenka has worked hard to master. In the past, she has sometimes struggled to control her emotions on court, leading to unforced errors or lapses in focus. But this year, she has shown marked improvement in staying calm and collected, even when faced with difficult situations. Her ability to stay aggressive and keep fighting for every point without losing her cool has been a key factor in her success.
“During the match, I reminded myself to stay aggressive and not let the match slip into a third set. It’s inevitable to think about that possibility when you’re close to a set point, but I kept my focus on fighting for every point,” she explained. “I’m thrilled with the shot I hit on set point at 4-5. It was a fundamental moment in the match and allowed me to avoid a third set that could have changed everything.”
### Teamwork and Mental Resilience at the Core of Her Success
Sabalenka’s gratitude toward her team and her emphasis on shared achievement reveal the strong support system that has helped her navigate the rigors of the tour. Being ranked No. 1 requires not just physical skill but mental resilience, and Sabalenka’s team has been instrumental in helping her refine her approach and develop a champion’s mindset. Working closely with her coaching staff, fitness trainers, and mental coaches, she has built an environment that fosters growth, resilience, and focus.
In her rise to the top, Sabalenka has also faced various challenges, from intense competition on the court to the physical toll of a demanding schedule. This season, she has been particularly focused on managing these demands, finding a balance between maintaining her aggressive playing style and conserving energy for the big moments. Her team has helped her build a training regimen that keeps her strong and fit while also emphasizing mental well-being. Together, they have addressed the psychological aspects of competition, ensuring she approaches each match with clarity and confidence.
The WTA Finals in Riyadh offer Sabalenka an opportunity to cap off her remarkable season with another prestigious title. Already, she has shown her dominance in the group stages, and her victory over Paolini positions her as one of the favorites for the championship. Yet, she remains grounded, attributing her success to the collective effort of her team rather than seeing it solely as a personal achievement.
Looking ahead, Sabalenka has her sights set on maintaining her No. 1 ranking and continuing to improve her game. Her primary goals include refining her tactical play, further strengthening her mental resilience, and staying injury-free in the seasons to come. With a supportive team behind her and a renewed sense of purpose, Sabalenka’s career trajectory points towards continued success at the highest levels of the sport.
In Riyadh, as she eyes the semifinals, Aryna Sabalenka embodies the spirit of dedication, teamwork, and tenacity that has defined her journey to the top. Her accomplishments so far are impressive, yet the Belarusian star seems poised for even greater achievements in the coming years. As she continues to push her limits, tennis fans around the world can look forward to watching her battle for the game’s biggest titles, backed by the unwavering support of her dedicated team.