It is said that a person doesn’t know how much something means to them until it is taken away and Aryna Sabalenka can relate to this.
The world no.2 took to Center Court on Tuesday to play her opening match against Hungary’s Panna Udvardy. It was the first time she had played a match there since reaching the 2021 semi-finals after being banned from attending 12 months ago due to her country’s ties to the war in Ukraine. The Belarussian government is accused of supporting Russia in the conflict that has killed thousands of people.
“I love Wimbledon. I have great memories from two years ago when I made the semifinals,” said Sabalenka. “I’m always enjoying my game here at Wimbledon and the atmosphere.’
“It was a tough period for me last year. I am just super happy to be here this year. I enjoyed every second today on the court and I enjoyed the atmosphere. I didn’t realize how much I missed Wimbledon last year until today.”
On the court, Sabalenka began her campaign this year with a dominant 6-3, 6-1, win over Udvardy. She produced an emphatic 29 winners compared to only four from her opponent and won 81% of her first service points. She has now won 36 matches this year which is the second-highest on the WTA Tour after Iga Swiatek (39) as of today.
“I prefer to bring my highest level from the very first match so I have more energy in the last stages of the tournament,” she said of her approach to Grand Slam tournaments.
“You can progress your game every match you play, adjusting a little bit to the conditions. I want to progress with every match but at the same time I want to start on a high level.”
The 25-year-old is aiming to continue her fine run at major events this season which started with her claiming the biggest title of her career at the Australian Open. Then in Roland Garros, she reached the last four for the first time before losing to Karolina Muchova.
Undoubtedly this year is going very well for Sabalenka who is also wary of the potential drawbacks it could have on her body as well. She relies on the support of her team to help her with this which is headed by her coach and former hitting partner Anton Dubrov.
“If you play on the high level, it means that you’re reaching the last stages of the tournament, so you’re playing a lot of matches. Physically you’re getting tired.” She explains.
“It’s really important to take care of your body and make sure you’re not getting injured a lot.”
Sabalenka is scheduled to return to action on Thursday.
