In a fiery post-match press conference that left jaws on the floor, Belarusian tennis star Aryna Sabalenka didn’t hold back — taking direct aim at rival Amanda Anisimova after a controversial match that ended with a dramatic net-cord winner.
Sabalenka, known for her explosive power and on-court intensity, was visibly frustrated as she addressed the media. “Let’s be honest, she got lucky. That shot barely clipped the net and dropped in. Pure luck,” she said, referring to the decisive point that handed Anisimova the win. “She didn’t even apologise. She just raised her fist like she did something impressive. Honestly? I was shocked.”
But it didn’t stop there.
The world No. 3 continued her unexpected tirade, mocking Anisimova’s game and accusing her of using mental tactics instead of skill. “She screams not because she’s hitting hard — she screams to mess with people’s heads. That’s not tennis, that’s theatre,” Sabalenka said, drawing stunned reactions from the room.
Tension between the two has been simmering under the surface for months, but this latest clash — both on and off the court — has brought it into the spotlight. While the match itself was closely contested, the manner in which it ended seems to have triggered something deeper in Sabalenka.
“She’s not even playing good tennis,” Sabalenka fired. “There’s no depth to her shots, just noise and drama.”
The 26-year-old powerhouse then made a bold declaration: “I’m not impressed — and I promise you, there’s going to be a rematch soon. And this time, it’ll be different.”
Just when the press thought they’d seen the drama peak, Amanda Anisimova walked into her own media session — and dropped a response that left everyone speechless.
With a calm, composed expression, the American said: “If I were in her position, I’d be upset too. But tennis isn’t just about hitting hard — it’s about winning. And I did.”
And then came the knockout line:
“Maybe next time she should aim higher than the net.”
The room erupted.
Social media lit up within minutes. Fans quickly took sides — #TeamSabalenka vs. #TeamAnisimova started trending across platforms. Former players and commentators also weighed in, some defending Sabalenka’s fiery passion, while others applauded Anisimova’s composed clapback.
While the Grand Slam is far from over, all eyes are now on the draw to see if a rematch between the two can happen. With emotions running high and reputations on the line, it’s the kind of rivalry that fuels ticket sales and sparks headlines — and tennis fans are loving it.
“Honestly, this could be the beginning of a blockbuster rivalry,” said one tournament insider. “It’s personal now.”
Whatever happens next, one thing is clear: Aryna Sabalenka and Amanda Anisimova have set the tennis world ablaze — not just with their racquets, but with their words.
