WATCH: Aryna Sabalenka aims her shots directly at her "very trustworthy" team during practice in Dubai, boyfriend Georgios responds
Aryna Sabalenka, the newly-crowned year-end World No. 1 hit the courts in Dubai to start her pre-season training. However, in a light-hearted moment the player was seen playing the "Trust their player" challenge with her coaching team.
Sabalenka's coaching team includes a considerable entourage, which her coach Anton Dubrov heads. Dubrov has been her coach for the past four years and most of the Belarusian's high-profile success has come under him. Another integral part of her coaching team is her fitness coach Jason Stacy, who also undertakes the physiotherapist role.
In the video she uploaded, it can be seen that Sabalenka is sharing a light-hearted moment with her team in the form of the "Trust their player challenge." In the scenario, the members of the coaching team stand with their backs turned, while the Belarusian serves the ball towards them. The trick of the challenge is that she cannot hit the player.
"A very trustworthy team" posted Sabalenka (via Instagram)
Seeing this video, the Belarusian's boyfriend Georgios Frangulis reacted with two "Joy face" emojis and a purple heart. The tennis player responded with three such emojis and a purple heart.
A strongly knit team was one of the most important aspects that helped Sabalenka attain the No. 1 ranking in 2024, and win two Majors.
Aryna Sabalenka aims to hold on to her ranking in 2024
Aryna Sabalenka and her team will have their work cut out in 2025, as the Belarusian will set out to defend her No.1 ranking throughout the season. The Australian Open will be the first Major tournament for the three-time Major champion.
The Belarusian ascended to the No.1 ranking in 2023 as well, but could not hold on to it as Iga Swiatek took it back at the WTA Finals last year. This time, however, Sabalenka feels that she has developed mental strength and has complete knowledge regarding her prowess on the court which will prove to be a difference from last time.
"I think I have better understanding of my game, of my weapons and how to manage my emotions,...If I compare myself to two years back, or like five years ago, it’s completely two different players.” said Sabalenka (via wtatennis.com)
Sabalenka will enter Melbourne as the two-time defending champion, but this time it will have serious ranking implications as well, as the No.1 player will have 2000 points to defend. With Iga Swiatek with only a little over 1000 points adrift in the second position, anything other than a win will see the Belarusian drop a significant amount of points.