
USA Today via Reuters
Aug 17, 2024; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Aryna Sabalenka acknowledges the crowd after winning her match against Liudmila Samsonova on day six of the Cincinnati Open. Mandatory Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports

USA Today via Reuters
Aug 17, 2024; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Aryna Sabalenka acknowledges the crowd after winning her match against Liudmila Samsonova on day six of the Cincinnati Open. Mandatory Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports
Aryna Sabalenka is absolutely on fire right now! She’s cruising towards her third straight Australian Open title, and she just battled her way past Clara Tauson in the third round, 7-6 (5), 6-4. Not only is she dominating on the court, but she’s also a total star off it. Her TikToks are insanely popular – she’s got a huge following! But with all this talk of TikTok getting banned, I wonder if that’ll put a damper on her social media game. But fret not! She has got a way out!
On court, Sabalenka’s win against Tauson marks her eighth consecutive victory this season, following her triumph at Brisbane International just 10 days earlier. On the other hand, off the court, Sabalenka has gained fame for her lighthearted and entertaining social media videos. From her spirited dances with her team during the practice in Melbourne, she garnered millions of views on TikTok and Instagram. She has also made playful reels involving rivals like world number two Iga Swiatek in Abu Dhabi and has been consistently engaging fans worldwide.
In her post-match interview after the third-round win, Sabalenka addressed the ongoing speculation about a potential TikTok ban in the U.S. When asked about her future on the platform, she humorously said, “We have no control over that situation, but, I mean, you know, there are ways to enter social media even if it’s banned.”
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Aryna Sabalenka’s penchant for going viral extended to her on-court interactions at the Australian Open. During her first-round post-match interview with Jelena Dokic, she was asked if she would recreate one of her popular TikTok dances on the court. Sabalenka playfully agreed, saying, “Only if the whole crowd is gonna join me.” After delivering a delightful performance, she said jokingly, “Now they have proof that I’m the worst dancer,” endearing herself even further to the fans.
While her TikTok escapades and witty remarks have solidified her status as a fan favorite, Sabalenka’s focus remains on her quest for glory. With her fierce on-court determination and form, she is poised to chase glory at Melbourne Park.
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Sabalenka on her intense on-court demeanor
Those who are solely following this Australian Open might think Sabalenka is effortlessly cruising through the matches. Maybe because she has reached the fourth round without losing a single set, right? But her journey has been far from easy. Each match, including the third-round encounter with Clara Tauson, has tested her resilience.
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Can Aryna Sabalenka's on-court brilliance overshadow the potential TikTok ban affecting her social media stardom?
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But, with a champion mindset, Sabalenka is bound to thrive under pressure. She now enters a crucial second week of the tournament, with just four steps away from reaching the throne. When asked about her ability to persevere during the challenges, Sabalenka revealed the mantra that keeps her going.
“It’s a combination of everything; I just remind myself how strong I am, how much I wanted this when I was a child. Then I look at the stands and see all the people sitting there, cheering me on, helping me achieve my dreams. I can’t give up with so many people out there. They push me to do my best. When I hear the crowd’s support, I can’t give up so easily. All of this helps me stay motivated and keep fighting no matter what,” she explained.
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Aryna Sabalenka’s dominance in Melbourne Park is undeniable. Out of her 18 wins at Rod Laver Arena, 17 have come consecutively. This incredible streak ties her with tennis legends Roger Federer and Victoria Azarenka for the eight-longest winning streak at the venue since its opening in 1988.
Even with the looming possibility of a TikTok ban in the U.S., the world No. 1 remains unfazed, showcasing her confidence and humor. But as the Australian Open progresses, fans are left wondering if they get to witness more of Sabalenka’s playful dances and captivating brilliance to win her next Grand Slam title.
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Can Aryna Sabalenka's on-court brilliance overshadow the potential TikTok ban affecting her social media stardom?