Scheduled to compete against American Emma Navarro in front of the enthusiastic local supporters at the US Open, Aryna Sabalenka playfully attempted to win over some of that fervent backing by promising a round of drinks if they rallied behind her during Thursday's semifinal. Sabalenka's interactions with the Flushing Meadows audience have been mixed, as she previously criticized their lack of support in last year's final against hometown favorite Coco Gauff, only to later cry during the trophy presentation. Following her straightforward 6-1, 6-2 victory against China's Zheng Qinwen on Tuesday, the Belarusian was queried during an on-court interview about how she planned to gain the favor of the home crowd for her match against Navarro at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
"Drinks on me tonight?" Sabalenka quipped. "Drink on me and please lend me some support in the upcoming match," she continued, eliciting applause and cheers from the audience. Sabalenka has consistently advanced to at least the quarterfinal in each of the last eight Grand Slam tournaments she has participated in and is once again among the final four at the U.S. Open for the fourth consecutive year. These extensive forays into the latter stages of major competitions have better prepared her to manage the intense pressure associated with these high-stakes events.
"In the past, when you're just starting out on the tour, making it to the second week feels extraordinary, and you encounter all sorts of unusual situations, placing immense pressure on yourself regarding Grand Slam performances and outcomes," she reflected. "Now, I'm simply trying to approach things more calmly... I'm just trying to take it easy."
