Aryna Sabalenka is one win away from making history at Roland Garros after pulling a stunning win against clay queen Iga Swiatek. However, more than her semi-final triumph, Sabalenka is looking forward to a perfect final win. And that’s precisely why her first non-hard court would mean the ‘world‘ to her.
The World No. 1 defeated defending champion Iga Swiatek in a thrilling semifinal, ending the Pole’s dominance on clay and setting up a blockbuster final against American star Coco Gauff.
Speaking after her semifinal victory, Sabalenka reflected on what it would mean to finally win her first Grand Slam title outside of hard courts.
“It’s gonna mean everything to me and my team,” she said. “Almost my whole life I’ve been told that clay courts are not my thing. I didn’t have any confidence in the past… I don’t know how many years… we’ve been able to develop my game so much.”
Sabalenka, known for her powerful shots, has been known for her dominance on hard courts, where she has already claimed two Australian Open titles. But in the past two seasons, she’s made major strides on clay, a surface once seen as her weakness.
“I feel really comfortable on this surface and I actually enjoy playing on clay,” she said. “If I’ll be able to get this trophy, it’s just gonna mean the world for us.”
After taking a hard-fought loss against Swiatek in last year’s Roland Garros semifinals, Sabalenka has made a sensational comeback. This time, Sabalenka turned the tables, showing just how far her clay-court game has come.
Now, she prepares to face Coco Gauff in the final. The clash promises to be a fiery contest between two of the most aggressive players on tour.
“I’m ready to go in that final and fight for every point,” Sabalenka said. “Give everything I have to give to get the win.”
One more match stands between her and the title that would mark her dominance not just on hard courts but also on a whole different surface. And if she does, Sabalenka knows it will be a moment she and her team will never forget.
