World number two
Aryna Sabalenka has lauded the decision of
the authorities to change the clothing protocols at
Wimbledon.
The 25-year-old began her campaign in the third Grand Slam
of the year in style after beating Hungary’s Panna Udvardy in straight sets
with a score of 6-3, 6-1 on Tuesday.
This year, the authorities at Wimbledon relaxed the
all-white clothing rule for women tennis players.
The decision received a lot of plaudits from all quarters and
the 2021 semifinalist also expressed happiness of playing after the rules change.
“It was a really tough period for me last year,” she said
after the match. “I was just super happy to be here this year. I really enjoyed
every second today on court. I really like that we still keep playing in the
white clothes, but I really like that we have an option for the shorts. I think
like dark green shorts looks really cool on the grass. It's really cool to have
an option at the Wimbledon.”
The former US Open winner also went on to state that she missed
playing at Wimbledon.
“I didn’t realise how much I missed this place until this
match. Thank you for everyone coming and supporting, it really means a lot to
me. It was a great match, I was trying to do my best in every point, I was
enjoying the experience. I think I missed this place a lot, that is why I
played my best tennis today.
“I mean, I feel great. It is really good to be one of the
favourite at this beautiful tournament and I will try my best to make sure I
reach as far as I can at Wimbledon. I really love Wimbledon. I have great
memories from two years ago. I made semi-finals. I always enjoy my game here at
Wimbledon, enjoy the atmosphere.”
Sabalenka’s will play the second-round fixture against the
winner of the clash between Camila Giorgi and Varvara Gracheva.