Aryna Sabalenka apologized after an outburst at the press conference during the US Open.

Aryna Sabalenka, a prominent figure in tennis, saw her convincing victory in the second round of the US Open overshadowed by an unexpected incident at the press conference. On September 2, 2026, the world number one triumphed over Polina Iatcenko with an impressive 6-1, 6-1, but a question from Matthew Futterman of The Athletic triggered an explosive reaction from the Belarusian.

Futterman's question about the player's state of mind following a tournament start marked by parties and fun provoked an intense response. “You guys are, like, a joke,” Sabalenka shot back, clearly irritated. The four-time Grand Slam champion criticized the insinuation that her off-court activities distracted her from her focus. “Think before you say things,” she added before requesting a change of subject.

The incident quickly went viral on social media, prompting Futterman to clarify his intent, but not before the tension escalated. The journalist later revealed that both he and Sabalenka's agent had sent him messages apologizing, a gesture he appreciated. “She and her agent actually texted me to apologize, which I appreciate,” Futterman revealed in response to a comment.

This was not an isolated incident for Sabalenka. Following her first-round victory over Camila Osorio, a similar question about her balance between tennis and brand commitments provoked another negative reaction. “What’s the question there? Why do you think I’m not focused on tennis?” she questioned, before clarifying that her schedule is rigidly organized around the sport.

Despite these tensions, Sabalenka advanced to the third round of the tournament, maintaining an impressive streak of 15 consecutive wins at the US Open. After her match against Iatcenko, the player expressed her satisfaction with her level of performance, even admitting that she had faced difficulties during the season. “I think I struggled a bit in the middle of the season,” she said, referring to her last victory at the Miami Open in March and her inability to replicate that form in subsequent competitions.

As she approaches the third round in New York, Sabalenka is determined to win the title for the third consecutive time, which could revitalize her confidence. The player feels “stronger” both physically and mentally, a factor that could be crucial in her quest for victory at the USTA Billie Jean King Tennis Complex. If she can maintain her impressive form, a new trophy may be within her reach, further cementing her legacy in women's tennis.