Aryna Sabalenka admits social media abuse "can get to me," but also highlights she is staying true to her goal to achieve success and serve as an inspiration.
Over the last three years, Sabalenka is the player with the most Grand Slams won - she has captured four Majors since 2023. Also, the Belarusian reached the world No. 1 position for the first time in 2023 September, kicked off her 60th week at the top spot this Monday.
Some would think that critics and doubters would keep Sabalenka's name out of their mouths. But even the 27-year-old Belarusian is no stranger to having critics and even being insulted at times on social media.
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Sabalenka on social media abuse: Sometimes it can destroy you
"Sometimes it can destroy you. Sometimes when it really gets to me, I like to go on their profile (the person criticizing) and see that. Like guys, I'm trying to do something big here. To inspire, to be a good example. I'm working hard. I'm chasing my dreams. I'm dedicating my life to something that I think is big," Sabalenka said.
In the majority of cases when a player starts receiving negative messages, it comes from an angry bettor who lost their money. While players are adjusted to that sad reality, they still feel impacted after someone wishes death upon them or even sends death threats.
Meanwhile, Sabalenka appeared in only one tournament during this year's Asian swing. After skipping the WTA 1000 tournament in Beijing because she needed additional rest after the US Open, the world No. 1 made her comeback to action by reaching the Wuhan semifinal.
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This week, the Belarusian is in Hong Kong for the Prudential NextGen Aces event, where she is joined by tennis icon Andre Agassi.
Sabalenka's last tournament of the season will be the WTA Finals, which starts in Riyadh on November 1st.
