Aryna Sabalenka explains why kids recognize her before they know she plays tennis: “Can we do TikTok?”
WTAMonday, 17 August 2026 at 02:30
Aryna Sabalenka has built one of the most recognizable personalities in women's tennis, but the world No. 1 admitted that her youngest fans do not always approach her because of what she has achieved on court. Increasingly, her TikTok presence is becoming the first thing they associate with her.
The Belarusian discussed the unexpected side effect of her social-media popularity during a Tennis Channel interview after opening her Cincinnati Open campaign with a straight-set victory over Talia Gibson. The conversation quickly moved beyond tennis, touching on her growing profile, her recent vacation, her TIME Magazine cover and the way she handles pressure.
Sabalenka has deliberately embraced that wider audience rather than treating social media as a distraction from her career. Her playful personality, frequent TikTok appearances and willingness to show her life away from tournaments have helped turn her into one of the sport's most marketable figures.
That popularity comes at a time when Sabalenka remains firmly at the center of the competitive picture. She arrived in Cincinnati as the world No. 1 and is preparing for the US Open, where she will attempt to add another major title to a season that has already produced three trophies.
Sabalenka admits some kids know her for TikTok, not tennis
Sabalenka's answer came when Tennis Channel asked about the influence she has on younger fans. Rather than pointing to her Grand Slam success or ranking, she immediately brought up TikTok.
“I think kids love me just because of my TikTok,” Sabalenka said. “They run towards me saying, ‘I love your TikTok.’ And I'm like, ‘Do you know that I play tennis?’ And they're like, ‘Can we do TikTok?’ And I'm like, ‘Yeah, sure.’”
Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus during a press conference ahead of her next match on Tuesday 4th for the Women’s Singles round of 64 match the WTA Masters 1000 National Bank Open
Sabalenka explained that this is partly the result of a conscious decision to show more of herself online and create a connection with younger audiences.
“So I knew that I had to share myself on TikTok to get connected with the kids,” she said. “But seriously, that's the goal, to be inspiration for kids to see this shine in their eyes, this motivation in their eyes.”
She has even seen young fans replicate her training routines. “They work out, they copy my workouts. Honestly, that's the dream,” Sabalenka added.
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That confidence has also been visible in how Sabalenka approaches difficult periods. After Wimbledon, she took a break that included time with friends, swimming, boat trips, beach clubs and nights out.
“It was honestly really, really much needed to get away from the struggles that I was having,” she said.
Sabalenka has also developed her own way of dealing with pressure inside her team. Rather than responding well to constant criticism, she prefers communication and an environment where everyone can relax.
“I don't want to see my team start going really hard on me, criticizing me. I think we would end up in a big fight and it won't be a good one,” she joked.
She ultimately described conversation and fun as her preferred way of navigating difficult moments, saying her team has become closer during challenging periods.
On court, Sabalenka had to rely on that composure against Gibson. She won 6-2, 7-6(2), although the second set became a prolonged battle as the Australian saved five match points before the tiebreak.
Sabalenka admitted the conditions were difficult, particularly in the Cincinnati heat and humidity, but was pleased to avoid a deciding set. She now advances further into the tournament with her US Open preparation continuing — while her TikTok audience keeps growing alongside her tennis career.
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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