Australia’s tennis player Arina Rodionova provided a hilarious
response after winning a hard-fought tie against America’s Sofia Kenin in
Brisbane.
The 34-year-old started the 2024 season brightly as she
defeated the 2020 Australian Open champion in straight sets with a score of
7-5, 7-6.
“Thank you so much. A little tired and I was almost like
upset that it didn’t go to third [set],” she said. “I was thinking that the
match might end in three hours and 15 minutes, but it ended in only two hours
and 24 minutes, so I might have to go for a run, I guess.
“Honestly, I only won because of you guys [the fans]. I mean
Thank you so much. But if you think I am going to share my prize money with
you, it’s not happening.”
The win will be a big one for Rodionova who is coming into
the competition on the back of a disappointing campaign. In 2023, she could not
qualify for the main round of any Grand Slam.
It was the second consecutive year that the Tambov-born failed
to qualify for the main draw of any major tournament. Rodionova will now face
the winner of the match between Mirra Andreeva and Liudmila Samsonova in the
round of 16 clash on Wednesday.
Azeem Siddiqui is a seasoned sports journalist and data analyst with a strong background in both digital media and live sports production.
He began his journalism career working with partners of The New York Times and has since contributed to several leading international sports publications, including Fox Sports Asia, Calciomercato, and GiveMeSport. Since 2023, Azeem has been part of the TennisUpToDate team, where he has played a key role in sustaining the platform’s growth and ensuring tennis fans receive timely and reliable coverage of the sport’s biggest stories.
In addition to his editorial work, Azeem has extensive experience as a data analyst in live sports broadcasting—particularly in cricket—where he combines analytical precision with creative storytelling. He has collaborated with multiple production companies and cricket boards worldwide, delivering real-time insights and data-driven narratives during live match coverage.
"But if you think I'm going to share my prize money with you... It's not happening" 🤣
A candid on-court interview by @arinarodionova after defeating Kenin in Brisbane!
#BrisbaneTennis