The era of public disputes between top tennis players like Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova is a thing of the past, according to Aryna Sabalenka. As an example, the world number two is set to face her best friend Paula Badosa in the French Open's last 32, marking their seventh meeting but first at a Grand Slam event.
Sabalenka acknowledged the challenge of competing against a close friend on the tour but emphasized their ability to separate their personal and professional lives, making it an enjoyable competition. She noted the current harmonious relationships among the top 10 players, highlighting the absence of major conflicts off the court.
This friendly atmosphere contrasts with the tension that prevailed around a decade ago. In 2013, Williams publicly criticized a top five player, insinuating exclusion from social circles and commenting on relationships. Meanwhile, Sharapova responded to the remarks, defending her associations and addressing criticisms about her on-court behavior.
Compared to these past episodes, the upcoming match between Sabalenka and Badosa is devoid of any verbal hostilities. Badosa spoke highly of Sabalenka's character and expressed excitement about competing against her, despite the previous results. She also mentioned the support she receives from her boyfriend, Stefanos Tsitsipas, who is a prominent figure in tennis.
The anticipation for the match is characterized by mutual respect and camaraderie, reflecting the positive dynamics in contemporary professional tennis.
