“We had so much fun in Dubai”: Aryna Sabalenka recalls pre-Finals getaway with Paula Badosa

Aryna Sabalenka might be all business on the court, but off it, the World No. 1 knows how to enjoy herself — especially when Paula Badosa is around. The Belarusian opened up about the time she spent with her close friend in Dubai ahead of the WTA Finals, saying they “had so many days of fun” while also working hard to stay sharp. For Sabalenka, that balance between enjoyment and discipline seems to be paying off perfectly.

The world No. 1 looked refreshed and dominant in Riyadh, crushing Italy’s Jasmine Paolini 6-3, 6-1 in her WTA Finals opener to seize control of the group standings. Sabalenka fired 11 aces, won 81% of her first-serve points, and broke Paolini five times in just over an hour of play. Her performance was a statement — precise, powerful, and confident — as she reached her 60th win of the season, a personal record in her career so far.

The 4-time Grand Slam champion awaits for another showdown with Jessica Pegula, one of her most familiar rivals on tour. Sabalenka leads their head-to-head 8-3, having already beaten the American three times this season — in the Miami Open final, the US Open, and the Wuhan semifinals. “Every match here matters, but it’s also about staying calm and enjoying it,” she said with her trademark grin. “This part of the season is always emotional, and I’m happy with how I’m handling things.”

Off the court, Sabalenka’s personality continues to captivate fans — from her playful energy with Badosa to her unmistakable style. The two stars, known for their powerful games and strong personalities, spent their pre-season time together in Dubai, relaxing at Atlantis, enjoying good food, and finding time to unwind before the intensity of the Finals. “I love spending time with Paula,” Sabalenka said. “We had fun, and at the same time, I worked hard during the day — then spent the evenings with friends.”

During Sabalenka’s interview with Tennis Channel, she joked about her “day and night” balance between hard work and downtime, even showing off her favourite red dress and signature watch. “It’s not new, I had it at the US Open,” she smiled. “But it’s my favourite piece — and I love red.”

Her friendship with Badosa has become a rare and refreshing storyline in women’s tennis — two rivals who genuinely root for each other. When Badosa struggled with injuries earlier this year, Sabalenka frequently voiced her support, calling her “one of the strongest people I know.” That emotional connection, she admits, helps her stay grounded amid the constant pressure of being No. 1. “We talk a lot about everything — tennis, life, goals,” Sabalenka shared earlier this season. “Having someone who understands this world makes a big difference.”

As the WTA Finals unfold, Sabalenka’s combination of maturity and self-belief stands out. She’s learned to channel her energy in the right moments — a far cry from the raw, temperamental version of herself from earlier years. “I think I’m growing as a person and as a player,” she reflected recently. “It’s not just about hitting hard anymore; it’s about staying in control of myself.”

Whether it’s her off-court charisma or on-court dominance, Sabalenka seems to have found the formula for happiness and success. The reigning World No. 1 will look to maintain her great form in her return to the court on Tuesday, November 4th, against Pegula. A victory would practically classify Sabalenka for the semifinals—something she has achieved in the last three consecutive editions, though she has yet to win the WTA Finals title—one of the pending tasks for the four-time Major champion.