Aryna Sabalenka decided to take a break after the Wimbledon Championships, in which she failed to lift the trophy. Her season has been really good so far, but she may have several regrets about not being able to win a single Grand Slam title in 2025. The Belarusian champion continues to be firmly at the top of the WTA rankings and is considered by all to be the best player in the world right now, but it is no secret that she aims to achieve the maximum possible result at the US Open.
For this reason, the world number 1 has decided to skip the 'Canadian Open' in Montreal and return to action directly at the Cincinnati WTA 1000. Sabalenka will also use this tournament as a test to assess her level ahead of the final Major of the season, which will take place in New York from August 24 to September 7.
Sabalenka wants to compete at her best
In her press conference before the start of the Cincinnati Open, Aryna explained how she feels at this point in the season: "I realized that I needed a break after Wimbledon and I feel like I made the right choice. I feel really good both physically and mentally. It's not easy to play at the highest level all year, we are human beings and we make mistakes, but I try to learn from all situations and I can't wait to compete again."
The world number 1 did not hide that her main goal is the US Open: "I decided not to play in Canada this year because I want to manage my energy in the best possible way. The tennis season is long and exhausting and I will have to defend a lot of points in the coming weeks. I will be called upon to defend the title in New York and I will have additional pressure, but I am ready to face this challenge. I hope that all the lessons I have learned in the last Slams will help me to give my best."
Sabalenka's potential path in Cincinnati is not easy, considering that she could face Emma Raducanu as early as the third round.
