World number one Belarus’
Aryna Sabalenka has stated that
she is proud of whatever she has achieved in 2023 despite a disappointing end
in the
WTA Finals.
The 25-year-old suffered a heartbreaking defeat in the semifinal
of the last major competition taking place in Cancun, Mexico to Poland’s Iga
Swiatek in straight sets with a score of 6-3, 6-2.
Sabalenka was quoted in a report recently where she stated
that she is proud of her performances throughout the year despite the recent setback.
“I really want to give credit to Iga,” she said. “She
adjusted well in these conditions. On this court, she was definitely way, way
better than me. I struggled a lot. Overall, I think I had an incredible season.
“Even though I lost twice here in Cancun, I still want to
leave this season on a positive note. I feel proud of myself. I made huge
improvements this season. I really hope this is only the beginning.”
Sabalenka did have an impressive year while playing at the
highest level. She played in the semifinal or beyond in each of the four Grand
Slams in 2023.
She also went on to win her maiden and till now only
Grand Slam as she clinched the Australian Open title after beating Elena
Rybakina in the final with a score of 4–6, 6–3, 6–4.