“If I had your team, I’d be a better player”: Aryna Sabalenka’s hilarious moment after loss to Mirra Andreeva

“If I had the same team you have at your age, I’d probably be a better player by now”: Aryna Sabalenka Jokes After Defeat to Mirra Andreeva

Aryna Sabalenka joked about her team following her defeat in the Indian Wells final against Mirra Andreeva, 6-2, 4-6, 3-6. The world No. 1 was left disappointed after failing to capitalize on a set lead—just like in 2023—leaving Tennis Paradise empty-handed.

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In a real battle on court, it was ultimately the 17-year-old who came out on top. Despite the loss, Sabalenka showed her good sense of humor during the award ceremony.

While congratulating Andreeva for her second consecutive WTA 1000 title, the Belarusian said, “Mirra, congrats on an incredible run, great tournament, and great tennis. Congrats on having a great team. If I had the same team you have at your age, I’d probably be a better player by now,” she added, causing laughter from the crowd.

However, the world No. 1 wanted to clarify that she wasn’t referring to her current team. “Don’t look at my team. I have the best team right now. I mean before!” the three-time Grand Slam champion added amidst more laughter. “At your age, I was struggling to find the right coach, but you got it so much earlier, that’s why you’re doing so well. Congrats, it’s amazing to see your success," she concluded.

She didn’t stop there, as Sabalenka also took the trophy she received as runner-up from the organization with humor, recalling the 2023 final where she lost to Elena Rybakina. The Indian Wells finalist receives a small trophy similar to the champion's, but in a smaller size. “I kind of have a love-hate relationship with this place,” joked the Belarusian. “I’ll just put this trophy on top of another one and pretend it’s the winner’s one... similar size.”

The world No. 1 will have to quickly put the disappointing loss behind her and travel to compete in the Miami Open, aiming for her first WTA 1000 of the season. Sabalenka will await her opponent, either Victoriya Tomova or Caty McNally.

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