Aryna
Sabalenka mentioned that she has never had the opportunity to dress up for
Halloween, but she would like to dress up as Barbie or a tiger.
World No. 1
will make her debut on Sunday, October 29, in the 2023 WTA Finals as the top
favorite. Sabalenka reached the final last year but couldn't secure the title
as she fell to Caroline Garcia.
This year,
the Belarusian arrives with renewed confidence after winning her first Grand
Slam at the Australian Open and reaching the top of the rankings just a few
months ago at the US Open.
Upon her
arrival in Cancun for the Finals, Sabalenka responded to the press about what
costume she would like to wear, considering that Halloween is just a few days
away. Sabalenka confessed that she has never had the opportunity to dress up
because she is usually away from home during that time.
“Well, I
never dressed up for the Halloween. I just didn't have a chance. We're always
somewhere at a tournament. If I would dress, I would be.. I don't know...
Barbie (laughs). The most popular for this year. Barbie or a ghost. I need to
think about that. A tiger (laughs). Now the ideas are coming,” world No. 1
said.
The
Belarusian tennis player was drawn to share a group with Elena Rybakina (4th),
Jessica Pegula (5th), and Maria Sakkari (8th). Sabalenka will participate in
the tournament for the third time and must strive for good results to secure
her year-end world No. 1 ranking, as Swiatek still has a chance to surpass her.
Sabalenka
will play against the Greek player in her debut match, with a head-to-head
record of 6-3 in her favor. Sabalenka and Sakkari will be in the same group at
the WTA Finals for the third consecutive year, and in this scenario, Sakkari
has excelled, as she won both of their previous encounters.
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
Aryna Sabalenka on what she would be for Halloween:
“Well, I never dressed up for the Halloween. I just didn't have a chance. We're always somewhere at a tournament. If I would dress, I would be.. I don't know... Barbie (laughs). The most popular for this year. Barbie or a