“I did right skipping a couple of tournaments”: Aryna Sabalenka credits rest for her strong return to Cincinnati

Aryna Sabalenka, the world No. 1 in women’s tennis, has made a striking comeback at the Cincinnati Open, attributing her revitalized form to a carefully timed break that allowed her to recover both physically and mentally.

After a challenging stretch that included early exits from major tournaments and a tough semifinal loss at Wimbledon, Sabalenka recognized the need to step away from the relentless tour schedule. She limited her training to light sessions and took time to relax in Mykonos with her boyfriend, Georgios Frangulis. This period of rest was essential, especially as she battled a rare shoulder injury—a strain known as “teres major”—which significantly impacted her serve.

Despite the setback, Sabalenka approached the situation with optimism. Reflecting on her decision, she said, “I thought, ‘Maybe I need to step back and take a little break, just chill, recharge and start everything all over again.’ It was amazing. I felt so good. Now I’m fresh and ready.”

The impact of that break has been evident in her performances in Cincinnati. Sabalenka has played with a renewed vigor, dispatching her opponents with the power and precision that have made her a dominant force on the WTA Tour. Impressively, she has not dropped a set throughout the tournament, signaling that she is poised and ready for the upcoming U.S. Open.

Sabalenka acknowledged the intensity of the tennis season, emphasizing the importance of managing energy wisely. “The season has been really intense. It’s impossible to be on your best level every day, every week,” she said. “We’re just trying to manage the energy a bit better because the schedule is really intense and it’s crazy what they’re trying to make us do. We’re humans; it’s impossible to handle this intensity. Every week is a mandatory tournament and the schedule is crazy, honestly.”

Her reflections underscore the challenges faced by top athletes navigating an unforgiving calendar, highlighting the fine balance between pushing hard and knowing when to rest.

Looking ahead, Sabalenka’s focus is clear: maintain the momentum she has built in Cincinnati and prepare for the challenges of the remainder of the season. Her blend of power, precision, and mental resilience makes her a formidable contender for the title and beyond.

By prioritizing rest and recovery, Sabalenka has not only rejuvenated her physical condition but also reinforced her mental strength—a critical factor in the demanding world of professional tennis. With the U.S. Open approaching, her strong showing in Cincinnati serves as a testament to the benefits of strategic breaks and the importance of balancing intensity with recovery.

As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Sabalenka to see how far this revitalized form can carry her, but one thing is certain: her decision to pause and recharge has laid a solid foundation for success in the final stretch of the season.

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