After claiming her first US Open title on Saturday, Aryna Sabalenka exhibited a classy gesture by sticking to her word to the US Open crowd.
The Belarusian defeated home favorite Jessica Pegula in an exciting final, scoring a difficult 7-5 7-5 victory over the American to win her third Grand Slam title. Prior to facing Pegula in the final, Sabalenka powered Pegula's countrywoman past Emma Navarro. Having to face two Americans consecutively on home soil on the grandest stage in tennis was a difficult task, therefore Sabalenka had to win fans over one way or the other.
Prior to facing Navarro in the semifinal, Sabalenka acknowledged the partisan crowd and was asked what she'd do to get the fans on her side.
"Drinks on me tonight?” she laughed. After beating Navarro, she promised to deliver on her previous statement. Sabalenka is sponsored by Dobel Tequila and she told the spectators: “So guys, marg-’Aryna’ for everyone from Dobel Tequila. You're welcome!”
Indeed, the 26-year old kept her promise, as on Monday, the tequila company shared an Instagram post with a discount code to receive money off a drink.
"When Maestra & 2024 US Open Champion @arynasabalenka promises, we deliver! Enjoy a Dobel Tequila cocktail or neat serve on us,” they wrote. “Celebrate big – at a small price. Save $10 on a Dobel Tequila cocktail or neat serve from Sep 9 through Sep 15 in New York by texting *drinksonme* to 24272.”
“Drinks on me! I kept my promise, now go celebrate!” reposed Sabalenka, ensuring she will get a rich reception when she returns to New York next year as defending champion.