"I don't think he said that": Aryna Sabalenka jokingly disagrees with journalist about Roger Federer mindset quote
WTA
Aryna Sabalenka enjoyed amusing questioning in her press conference whether intentional or not after winning her second round at the Berlin Ladies Open.
She was asked if she realises every morning that she is still World Number One and whether it weighs on her mind at all. But for Sabalenka who is a fairly serious but jovial character anyway, she said she can't afford to as she would then lose her mind in reality.
But she did say that if she does wake up every day wondering how to be the best version of herself so some of it does ring true when it comes to the World Number One.
"Never. I think if I woke up like that, I wouldn't be number one for so many weeks. I wake up wondering how I can push myself, how I can give my best," said Sabalenka.
"Everything comes down to details, sometimes 1%" or not...
Sabalenka was then asked about the phrase used by the Swiss king Roger Federer of 'everything comes down to details, sometimes 1%' but the Belarusian hilariously poked fun at the questioning.
"I don't think he said that," Sabalenka first replied with a smile. When the question was explained that Federer meant that there was a big difference between being number one and number two, she acknowledged it was difficult to muster. "
"I don't know, it's difficult. What I can say is that it's really not easy. Everything comes down to details, to 1%. Maybe at times I am slightly better than the other girls, but honestly, all players are very strong.
Aryna Sabalenka thanks crowd after her match at Roland Garros 2026
"Every match is a battle and you have to play your best tennis to get the victory. So I don't necessarily agree with that phrase, but maybe that's the mentality I should have, I don't know (laughs)."
She also poked fun at the journalist again for bringing up more Federer quotes, this time surrounding enjoying being World Number One because it means being the favourite before every match. She said she enjoys being World Number One.
"You came here with really tough questions (laughs). I like being number one because it means everyone is chasing you and I have a target on my back. I love the challenge and I'm ready."
Samuel GillEditor-in-Chief
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of TennisUpToDate.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces across the TennisUpToDate network, playing a central role in the daily operation and development of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has a broad background in tennis media. In his current role, he works closely with editors and writers to ensure coverage meets clear journalistic standards, with particular attention to verification, consistency, and timely updates when new information becomes available.
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