Belarusian Tennis Beauty Aryna Sabalenka Turns Emotional as She Urges Fans to Support Her Friend’s Tough Life Battle at Canadian Open

The third day of the Montreal Open was all about Aryna Sabalenka. The second seed started her campaign with flying colors against Petra Martic as she registered a straight-set victory. It was a near-flawless performance from the Belarusian and despite Martic’s best efforts; the scoreline was quite one-sided. However, it wasn’t her performance that brought all limelight to the World No.2 in Montreal.

Performances are not the only way to win over the fans. A heartwarming non-sporting gesture from the players can often have a lasting impact on spectators. Sabalenka’s post-match on-court interview was surely the highlight of the day’s play, as she was full of empathy and emotions.

Aryna Sabalenka with an emotional on-court interview

Sabalenka started her on-court interview by answering questions relating to her victory. However, once the match-related questions were done with, the host asked her something important or rather intriguing. Sabalenka had an unfamiliar face in her box today. Unsurprisingly, the host asked about the new member.

In reply to the host’s question, Sabalenka said, “She’s my friend. I’m not sure if I can say what she said, but I really wish you to stay strong. I am with you and I know you’ll win your fight. Guys, you need to support this girl. She’s fighting something really tough in life. I think with all our support, you will win it. I’m with you.” Sabalenka was close to breaking down while speaking. Her voice started getting heavy towards the end as emotions overwhelmed the Belarusian.

Sabalenka won over the fans with her beautiful gesture. However, it wasn’t the only instance where she showed her gracious side.

READ MORE: Days After Non-stop Sweating in the Sweltering Florida Heat, Aryna Sabalenka Revels in the Rain as the Heavens Open Up to Cool Things Down

Sabalenka showered love on the Canadian Open mascot

Prior to the match, Sabalenka engaged in a mini-exhibition where she had to aim at the mascot. The mascot’s challenge was to dodge her groundstrokes. After the completion of her match, Sabalenka took to her Twitter to sweetly apologized to the mascot. The mascot was also well protected by his outfit and copping a couple of blows did not really hurt him. However, Sabalenka felt it was right to apologize to the mascot and show some love at the same time.

Do you think that Sabalenka is one of the most gracious players on the WTA tour right now? Let us know in the comments.

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