Aryna Sabalenka’s autographs become a surprise business after fans sell signed items from Minsk celebration
WTASunday, 19 July 2026 at 02:30
Aryna Sabalenka’s return to the place where her tennis journey began became a major celebration in Minsk this week, as the world No. 1 visited School No. 86 near the Smena Sports School to inaugurate two new clay courts named after her.
Hundreds of fans gathered to see the Belarusian star, with access to the event limited through prior registration and the final spots decided by lottery. After the official ceremony and a session with young players, Sabalenka took part in a large autograph signing for supporters.
According to reports, the 28-year-old signed exactly 350 cards in around 30 minutes, creating a memorable moment for fans who attended the event celebrating her connection with Belarusian tennis.
However, only hours later, some of the signed memorabilia from the event began appearing on local online marketplaces. Signed posters and other items connected to Sabalenka’s appearance were listed for sale.
Sabalenka celebrates return to her tennis roots
One listing appeared on Belarusian marketplace Kufar, where a seller offered a poster signed by Sabalenka and claimed it had been obtained personally during the event.
The seller initially asked for offers rather than setting a fixed price, later stating that they had already received an offer of 500 Belarusian rubles — around $155 USD or €135–140. Another signed poster was listed for 200 Belarusian rubles, approximately $60–65 USD or €55. There is no confirmation that any of the sales were completed.
a pateta sendo recebida em Minsk pic.twitter.com/9HjCGkq9iA
— lorena (@riverszdaya) July 13, 2026
Despite the unexpected discussion surrounding the resale of her autographs, Sabalenka’s visit represented a significant moment for Belarusian tennis. The new clay courts named after her were opened close to the environment where she developed as a young player before becoming one of the biggest stars on the WTA Tour.
The world No. 1 has become one of the most successful Belarusian athletes in history, reaching the top of the WTA rankings and winning multiple Grand Slam titles. Her return to Minsk offered an opportunity to reconnect with the country where her career began and inspire young players following a similar path.
The autograph session was intended as a way for Sabalenka to celebrate with supporters and share a special moment away from competition. Instead, the quick appearance of signed items on resale platforms became the unexpected storyline after the event.
Aryna Sabalenka – Grass Swing 2026
| Tournament | Round | Opponent | Opponent Ranking | Result | Score |
| Berlin Open | R16 | Ekaterina Alexandrova | No. 19 | W | 6-4, 6-4 |
| Berlin Open | Quarterfinal | Nikola Bartůňková | No. 62 | W | 2-6, 7-6(2), 6-4 |
| Berlin Open | Semifinal | Jessica Pegula | No. 4 | L | 6-4, 6-7(4), 6-0 |
| Wimbledon | First Round | Teodora Kostović (Q) | No. 184 | W | 6-2, 6-3 |
| Wimbledon | Second Round | McCartney Kessler | No. 57 | W | 6-1, 7-6(9) |
| Wimbledon | Third Round | Jeļena Ostapenko | No. 31 | W | 6-4, 6-4 |
| Wimbledon | Fourth Round | Naomi Osaka | No. 14 | L | 6-2, 7-6(2) |
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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