Aryna Sabalenka secured her status as the first woman since 2013 to successfully defend the Australian Open women’s singles title, triumphing over Zheng Qinwen with a score of 6-3, 6-2 in the 2024 final on Saturday.
Reflecting on her achievement during the post-match press conference, the Belarusian shared insights into the emotional journey of winning her second Grand Slam title.
She expressed newfound understanding for the tears shed by seasoned champions after each victory, acknowledging the enduring pressure and expectations that accompany every tournament.
“So I feel like, because before I was watching all these champions crying after each Slam, I was, like, come on, you’ve done it, like, 15 times,” Aryna Sabalenka said. “Why are you still crying? Right now, I didn’t even get to that point, but I feel like I understand why they are still crying.”Because every time, there is the same pressure and the same expectations. You want it same way. So it’s always emotional. Yeah, it’s still the same, you know,” she added.
Contrary to her expectations, Sabalenka admitted that her previous win did not bring the anticipated sense of freedom to her game. She emphasized the continued intensity and dedication required to compete at the highest level.
“You know what? I actually felt after last year it’s going to help me to be more free and don’t care about things, and blah, blah, blah,” Aryna Sabalenka said. “But not really.”You still feel the same. You still want it badly and you still working very hard for it, and you still have to show up and fight for it and show your best level,” she added.
In assessing her performance in the final, Sabalenka expressed satisfaction with her level of play against a formidable opponent like Zheng Qinwen, describing her as “speechless” and overwhelmed by her emotions.
“I’m speechless right now,” Aryna Sabalenka said. “I don’t know how to describe my emotions. But definitely I’m super, super happy and proud of everything I was able to achieve so far.”“Yeah, just happy with the level I played today. She’s a great player and very tough opponent. I’m super happy that I was able to get this win today,” she added.
Sabalenka’s victory at this year’s Australian Open marks a consecutive triumph without dropping a set throughout the tournament, solidifying her prowess on the court.
