"It's been becoming more chill between us" - Aryna Sabalenka chimes in on improved relationship with rival Iga Swiatek

World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka was recently filmed practicing with Polish rival Iga Swiatek, and the Belarusian superstar later opened up on her current relationship with the four-time Roland Garros champion.

The duo have battled each other in several epic matches over the past two years. Furthermore, each has held the year-end World No.1 ranking in the past, with Sabalenka finally supplanting Swiatek at the end of the 2024 season.

Read also

"Hard pill to swallow": Aussie No.1 Kimberly Birrell left in tears as late match change turns from dream to nightmare

Sabalenka insists she has a good relationship with Swiatek despite the latter's doping woes

It was revealed Swiatek had tested positive for a banned substance last year, for which she received a one-month ban. Following her completion of the suspension, Swiatek has since returned to the WTA Tour, although several fans and tennis critics stating the former World No.1 received a lenient treatment.

Nonetheless, Sabalenka refrained from making any negative comments towards her rival. Additionally, the two-time Australian Open champion was seen practicing with Swiatek in a video that made its way to social media sometime after the doping scandal.

"I feel like when you first start getting to that top-five level, you are always trying to stay away from everybody," said Sabalenka of her relationship with Swiatek. "It's not like I was against her, or rude to her. I think everyone just focuses on themselves.
"But when you get to a certain point, you can take it easier, and not become best friends, but at least we can practice together. It's going to help each other, to improve each other, to push each other to the next level. It's really cool to practice with someone you have a rivalry with.
"I thought we have to stay together and have fun and just enjoy our rivalry, not be too tough on each other. Since that, we already practiced a couple of times. Then I was doing fitness after our hit. She was like, 'I can join you guys.' We filmed it and post it. It’s been becoming more chill between us, too. I have to say she’s really nice person. It was fun getting to know each other."

Read also

Tournament Centre Australian Open 2025: Schedule, results, Prize Money and TV Guide

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Unlock your ultimate tennis experience—subscribe today for exclusive access to top stories.

Subscribe