“Biomechanically, how her serve is put together, believe it or not, is one of the best on the women’s tour.” Rick Macci expressed his genuine observation on Aryna Sabalenka two years ago. Back then, she had several on-court movement issues. In last two years, she’s gained the consistency she previously lacked. Undoubtedly, the Belarusian has become an improved version of her former self. Her big wins in 2024, at the Australian Open, the US Open, and a climb to No.1 spot reflect her solid transition. But Serena Williams’ childhood coach has now emphasized on other key elements, he believes, may help her to dominate 2025 as well.

Macci has, time and again, admired Sabalenka as a phenomenal player. In 2022, when she was still struggling with adjusting body-balance on the court, he pointed out that she was one of the best ones. “The driving of the legs is perfectly synchronized with the racquet. It’s what we call it’s counter-intuitive.” he said in a clip shared on X, highlighting the Belarusian’s playing style. “So technically, she has the one of the best serves on the tour,” he added. Now, looking at the upcoming season, the legendary coach and Hall of Famer believes Sabalenka can continue showing her prowess, only if she stays “locked” and “loaded” on a mental level. How?

Taking to his X account, Rick Macci shared a post on Sunday. Emphasizing on her ongoing form and journey ahead, he wrote, “If Sabalenka mentally stays locked loaded and ready to launch every point she could dominate.” According to him, “She has most explosive and complete firepower on the 3 big ticket items forehand backhand and Serve” But the real test will be to control her match temperament. Simply put, “the wildcard is how she handles her Nerve.”

Meanwhile, Sabalenka doesn’t want to let anything deter her focus going forward. When she steps on the court at the Australian Open in January, the World No.1 will have a chance to repeat a 26-year-old record by WTA icon Martina Hingis. But is she feeling pressurized due to this exciting opportunity?

Aryna Sabalenka wants to keeps the pressure aside moving into 2025 season

For the unversed, Martina Hingis achieved a rare and stellar milestone nearly three decades ago. From 1997 to 1999, the Swiss tennis legend went on to win three consecutive Australian Open titles. Now, Sabalenka is on the brink of recreating this moment. She’s already clinched the trophy Down Under in 2023 and 2024. When asked whether she’s feeling the burden of expectations due to this record, she had a clear answer.

Speaking during a press conference ahead of her Brisbane International campaign, before Australian Open, she revealed, “Honestly, I didn’t know about that till probably few days ago when I saw, I don’t know how we say, Twitter tweet. Someone post, whatever, saying that it’s been a while since someone won three Australian Opens in the row.”

“I mean, it’s little bit cool to achieve such an incredible goal, dream of so many young players. But once again, I think I better focus on myself. If I’ll be able to bring my best tennis, I know that I’m able to do that. But yeah, I prefer to stay focused on myself,” she added.

Moreover, she also talked about her preparations ahead of the Australian Open. Majors really matter to her and she made it very evident. “I definitely have confidence in Grand Slams. I know I am capable of many things, that I am capable of holding that beautiful trophy. It’s good to know, but there is still a long way to go. Many things need to be done. I prefer to focus step by step. It’s good to know that you have the ability to win the Australian Open, but it’s better to focus on yourself, on improving each day, on doing your best and expecting the best. That is my mindset for the Australian Open,” she concluded.

Do you think Aryna Sabalenka will be able to accomplish the milestone of claiming the Grand Slam trophy in Australia for three successive seasons? Let us know in the comments below.