VIDEO: “The crowd inside Rod Laver Arena cruelly mocked her” – Look back to Sabalenka’s debut against Barty at 2018 Australian Open
WTA
Aryna Sabalenka's debut
at the 2018 Australian Open has been shared on social networks, where she was
molested by the public during the match against local Ashleigh Barty.
The new Aussie Open
champion found her best tennis over the past two weeks to clinch her first
Grand Slam, where she dropped just one set in the final to Elena Rybakina. The
Belarusian, who will once again occupy second place in the ranking, loos back
on the uncomfortable moment she experienced 5 years ago.
In that match, the
crowd mocked her for the screams she made while playing, and they even
interrupted Sabalenka's service, for which the chair umpire had to ask for
silence and even the former world No. 1 Barty asked the public for respect:
“My first Australian Open was against Ashleigh on the Rod
Laver stadium,”
“I
remember after the match thinking, ‘Oh my god I think I will never get it’. That’s
crazy."
After
winning the trophy, Sabalenka thanked the public for the support she has had in
recent weeks:
“Thank you
soo much for an amazing atmosphere and I hope I can come back stronger next
year and I’ll show you even better tennis and you guys will support me even more”
“I
think Australia loves me (laughs). The support this week, I think because
everyone remembers last year and everyone wants me to be better. I felt the
support and it really motivated me a lot.”
On Twitter it was
criticized that the stands were not full, and that not all the tickets had been
sold:
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
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.
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