Aryna Sabalenka snaps at reporter after awkward US Open question: “Think before you say stuff”

Thursday, 03 September 2026 at 08:00

Aryna Sabalenka was in no mood to entertain a question about her off-court activities after continuing her US Open title defence with another dominant victory. The world No. 1 comfortably defeated Russian qualifier Polina Iatcenko 6-1, 6-1 on Arthur Ashe Stadium, but her post-match press conference produced a much more tense moment.

Sabalenka was asked how she was finding her mood now that the tournament had started, following a week in New York filled with brand appearances, events and activities. The question referenced the “parties and fun” surrounding the tournament, prompting an immediate reaction from the defending champion.

The 28-year-old made it clear that she did not appreciate the suggestion that her pre-tournament schedule had involved partying. After the journalist attempted to clarify that he was referring to appearances and events rather than suggesting Sabalenka had actually been partying, the Belarusian remained unconvinced.

The exchange came after Sabalenka had barely been troubled on court. She needed only 54 minutes to dispatch world No. 160 Iatcenko, dropping just two games and continuing her pursuit of a third consecutive US Open title.

Sabalenka tells reporter to think before speaking

Sabalenka initially challenged the premise of the question, pointing out that she had simply posted activities involving brands and asking why that should automatically be interpreted as partying.

“You guys are like a joke. Parties. Fun. Why would you even say that? Why would you even think about that? Like, what kind of question is that? Just because I posted some activities with brands and you think that I’ve been partying?”

Aryna Sabalnkea looks up during her first round clash at US Open 2026.

Sabalenka is on a 16-match winning streak at the US Open and is a two-time defending champion.

The journalist attempted to clarify that he was referring to the number of events and appearances around New York rather than suggesting Sabalenka had attended parties. “You literally said that,” Sabalenka replied.

When the journalist then asked whether she had become more serious and competitive now that the tournament was underway, Sabalenka delivered her sharpest response. “Oh yeah, I wasn’t serious before that. Next question. Think before you say stuff.”

Sabalenka marches into the third round

The Belarusian had little reason to be unhappy with her performance on court. She raced through the opening set in 24 minutes and continued to dictate play with her power and precision throughout the match.

Sabalenka converted six of her eight break points and limited Iatcenko to just 33 percent of points won behind both her first and second serves. She did briefly lose her own serve at 3-0 in the second set, but immediately responded by breaking back before closing out a 6-1, 6-1 victory.

A quick start for Aryna Sabalenka!

She takes the first set 6-1. pic.twitter.com/2rMyrYB9SH
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 2, 2026

The result was another convincing display from the top seed, who has barely been tested in her opening two matches in New York. After also winning in straight sets in the first round, Sabalenka has dropped only five games across her first two matches as she continues to look increasingly comfortable in her title defence.

“I’m super happy to play in front of you, the night sessions here are the best,” Sabalenka told the Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd after the match. “I’m happy with my level, happy with the focus and happy to be through this match.”

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The victory extended Sabalenka’s US Open winning streak to 16 matches as she continues her bid to become the first woman since Serena Williams to win three consecutive titles in New York. The Belarusian has now taken another step toward that goal without dropping a set, although the level of opposition will increase as she progresses through the draw.

Her next challenge will come against Kamilla Rakhimova, who also advanced in straight sets. Sabalenka will enter that third-round clash as the overwhelming favourite, but with the defending champion continuing to combine her trademark power with a high level of consistency, she will be confident of keeping her run alive in New York.

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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