"‘A lot of alcohol’: Aryna Sabalenka opens up in Q&A, shares how her team stays calm during matches"
WTA
Aryna Sabalenka responded to a Q&A session on Instagram, featuring her doubles partner Andrei Vasilevski and coach Anton Dunbrov. The world No. 1 is finalising the last details before making her comeback for the 2025 season.
The 3-time Grand Slam champion faces a tough challenge ahead when she steps onto the court at the upcoming Brisbane International, which kicks off the main draw on Sunday, December 29, with the Belarusian as the top favourite for the title. It will be her only stop before the Australian Open, where she is the two-time defending champion.
Sabalenka pens Up in Q&A saession
During her off-season, Sabalenka has used social media to keep fans updated on her movements while there are no competitions. This time, she responded to a round of Q&A, including members of her team.
"How do you stay so calm during Aryna's matches?" was one of the questions posted, with former Belarusian doubles player Vasilevski answering, "Chamomile tea, Ashwagandha, a lot of alcohol."
Although Sabalenka doesn't drink alcohol, she has frequently shown the close relationship she has with her team members. After winning the US Open title, she revealed that during the celebration they “probably gonna drink a lot,” the world No. 1 said.
When the Belarusian won her first Grand Slam title at the 2023 Australian Open, she had a special celebration with her team. Two months after claiming the trophy, she revealed, “Can I say that (smiling)? Like straight after the title, we went back to the hotel and all my team was drunk. (Laughter.) I don’t know how many litres they drank that day. It was the most funny and, yeah, memorable moment."
"Why you’re like hanging your hat, hiding? That’s normal. That’s okay. I think everyone would do the same, no? Everyone was so stressed during those weeks, I think it was normal to have a little drink. Yeah, I didn’t drink," she added at the time.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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