Moved by Iga Swiatek’s Tears, Aryna Sabalenka Puts French Open Rivalry Aside to Display Sympathy – ‘She Was Very Close’

Aryna Sabalenka took a moment to step out of rivalry and unveiled her humane side. The French Open arena was recently filled with an air of extreme emotions as Iga Swiatek faced Naomi Osaka in an intense showdown. While it was a lot more than just another showdown on the road to glory, both rivals were seen shedding tears as soon as the match ended. However, the story didn’t just end there, as Aryna Sabalenka came forward to write and add another chapter.

Thousands of fans present at the Philippe-Chatrier were seen sharing a pack of emotions with Swiatek and Naomi Osaka. While the Pole couldn’t stop tears rolling from her eyes, Aryna Sabalenka took a moment to console her, acknowledging that the levels justified it all.

“I saw a little clip of Swiatek crying and I totally get it. It was a tense match and she was very close to lose. Sometimes I feel the same,” the Belarusian WTA star said, empathizing with Swiatek’s emotional breakdown.

This happened after Iga Swiatek was seen weeping on her bench after securing a massive win over the tennis mom. While it was an epic showdown between the former World No. 1 and the defending champion, each fan had a keen eye on it. “It’s much more intense for the second round than I ever expected,” the Pole said, letting fans know about the reason behind her breakdown.

The fact that Aryna Sabalenka stepped forward to say words of warmth for Iga Swiatek wasn’t usual. Both of them have been involved in an intense rivalry for a long time, as the World #1 took titles in both Madrid and Rome from under her nose. As the situation is even more heated at the ongoing tournament, Sabalenka’s humane move surely deserves appreciation. However, despite being neutral for a moment, the Belarusian is still firm on the challenge that Iga Swiatek would bring against her.

Aryna Sabalenka accepts the challenge against Iga Swiatek

The fans are highly anticipating another showdown between Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek. Swiatek, who stands with a massive lead of eight victories out of the 11 showdowns played against the Belarusian, is on her way to achieving the fourth Roland Garros title. Sabalenka was wise enough to not ignore her lead and therefore acknowledged the strong force that she is.

“She achieved incredible results at Roland Garros,” the World No. 2 said. However, besides the acknowledgment, she showed firm belief in her potential by accepting the challenge against her. “I take it as a challenge, and I like to accept tough challenges. That’s what motivates me and brings me more energy to keep going,” she added.

The series of showdowns between Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek is turning into the most discussed rivalry on the WTA scene right now. While the French crowd demands another competition between them, it is yet to be determined who claims the crown.