Tennis
Aryna Sabalenka Jokingly Offers Free Drinks To The US Open Crowd Before Her Semi Final Clash With American Emma Navarro
Reigning Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka is pulling out all the stops to win over the American crowd at this year’s US Open.
Sabalenka Jokes With US Open Crowd
After her dominant quarterfinal victory over Qinwen Zheng, the Belarusian star made a bold promise to potential fans: “Drinks on me tonight!”
The humorous offer came in response to a question about how she might entice American spectators to support her in her upcoming semifinal match against rising star Emma Navarro.
With an American player waiting for her in the semifinals, Sabalenka is aware that she might face a hostile crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
“OK, guys, drinks on me, and please give me some support in the next match,” Sabalenka joked, hoping to charm the New York crowd with her playful personality.
Aryna Sabalenka was asked how she’s going to win over the crowd playing an American next at US Open
*Aryna pauses and thinks*
“Drinks on me tonight” 😂
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) September 4, 2024
Sabalenka Aiming For First US Open Title
Sabalenka, who is aiming for her first singles US Open title, has been a force to be reckoned with throughout the tournament. However, she faces a tough challenge in Navarro, who upset defending champion Coco Gauff in the quarterfinals.
When asked about her strategy for facing Navarro, Sabalenka admitted that she hadn’t given it much thought yet. “Wow, what a question,” she said. “I mean, I’m gonna try to put so much pressure on her and probably try not to let her do her stuff, you know.”
A victory at the US Open would solidify Sabalenka’s status as one of the top players in the world and add another Grand Slam title to her impressive resume.
But first, she’ll need to navigate the challenges of playing in front of a potentially hostile crowd and defeat a talented opponent in Navarro.
Aryna Sabalenka becomes the youngest woman to reach 4 consecutive US Open semifinals in singles since Venus Williams in 2002.
Keeping great company. 🐅 pic.twitter.com/pr58a3Cg2z
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) September 4, 2024