Aryna Sabalenka is heading back to the US Open as the current champion and one of the favourites to win again, but her 2025 season has been far from easy.
The world number one hasn’t yet won a major title this year. She came close at the Australian Open and French Open, finishing as runner-up in both, and then lost in the semi-finals at Wimbledon.
She started the year with a heartbreaking defeat to Madison Keys in the Australian Open final, then lost to Coco Gauff at Roland Garros. At Wimbledon, Amanda Anisimova knocked her out in the semi-finals. Since the French Open, Sabalenka hasn’t made it to a final.
This is a big change from her strong 2024 season, when she won both the Australian Open and the US Open, helping her build a reputation as one of the most powerful and consistent players on the tour.
In recent years, Sabalenka had improved her mental strength and consistency, especially with her serve. She appeared calm and focused during matches, and seemed happier off the court, often sharing light-hearted moments with fans and her team.
But in 2025, things have been more difficult. After losing the Australian Open final, she smashed her racket in frustration, something she hadn’t done in a long time. After her defeat at Roland Garros, she caused a stir by saying Gauff only won because of her own 70 unforced errors, a comment she later apologised for.
Speaking after her Wimbledon exit, Sabalenka said, “In all three Grand Slams, it felt like I didn’t trust myself. When I do trust myself, I play my best tennis. The US Open is the only one left. I just need to believe in myself and go for it.”
Her preparation for the US Open hasn’t gone well either. She pulled out of the Canadian Open due to tiredness, and then suffered a heavy defeat to Elena Rybakina in the Cincinnati quarter-finals, a poor result on her favourite surface.
Even so, Sabalenka is still one of the top players to watch in New York. Her strong serve and powerful shots make her a tough opponent for anyone.
But the competition is tough this year. Coco Gauff is in great form after her win at the French Open, 2022 champion Iga Swiatek just won in Cincinnati, and Rybakina has reached the semi-finals in her last three tournaments.
Sabalenka still has what it takes to turn things around, but whether she can focus her energy and defend her title is the big question.
As the US Open begins, all eyes will be on her. Can she bounce back and end her season on a high?
