How does Sabalaneka balance family tragedy and tennis ambition ?

Sudden tragedy struck 21-year old Aryna Sabalenka and left her with major doubts heading into 2020 season

The off-season is a major part of any tennis players preparation, you get the opportunity to rest and recharge both physically and mentally. For 21-year old Aryna Sabalenka, it did the opposite. Her late father passed away at the mere age of 43. It left her devasted questioning whether she could muster the willpower to start the season the proper way. Speaking to the media after her victory at the Adelaide International 2020 Sabalenka said:

"During the pre-season, it was tough to practice mentally, I didn’t think too much actually. I couldn’t leave, because I knew it was a tough situation with my family and I couldn’t leave them but somehow I needed to go. I wasn’t excited about the matches, I just went there because I have to.”

Her late father was the reason she picked up the racket in the first place. When she was young they used to drive by tennis courts which sparked curiosity in Aryna. Curiosity became a passion and later a love for the game. Strength of will is something that is deeply instilled into the young Belarussian which she drew from her father.

"I’m just trying to fight because my dad wanted me to be No.1," Sabalenka said. "I’m doing it for him so that’s what is helping me to be strong right now."

Whether the young Belarussian will be able to overcome this tragedy on the court remains to be seen but a deep determination and motivation are certainly present.

She is set to play Carla Suarez Navarro in the 1st round of next week's Australian Open 2020.

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