Aryna Sabalenka Opens Up on Dubai Struggles: “I’m All Over the Place”
Aryna Sabalenka didn’t hold back after her shocking early exit in Dubai, candidly admitting that she struggles to perform in the Middle East and even feels a lack of hunger when competing during this part of the season.
On Wednesday, the top seed suffered a surprising round-of-16 defeat, as world No. 38 Clara Tauson dominated her in straight sets, 6-3, 6-2. This follows another early loss last week in Doha, where the three-time Grand Slam champion fell to Ekaterina Alexandrova in her opening match.
For Sabalenka, a 1-2 record in the first two WTA 1000 tournaments of the season is far from ideal. But her struggles in the Middle East are nothing new. Since winning Abu Dhabi in 2021, the Belarusian has failed to reach a single semifinal in the region, particularly finding it tough in Doha and Dubai.
Sabalenka: “I’m Not Consistent, and My Decisions Are Wrong”
“Over the last couple of years, I haven’t performed well in the Middle East,” the world No. 1 admitted after her defeat to Tauson.
“I think we need to change something in the preparation because every time I play here, I don’t feel well—even health-wise, I struggle. Australia always takes a lot of energy out of me.
“I believe I’m not as hungry on court. My thoughts are all over the place, I’m not consistent, and the decisions I make during matches aren’t the best. Emotionally, I’m not at my best either.”
Sabalenka had tempered expectations heading into the Middle East swing, but few anticipated such an underwhelming campaign from the reigning world No. 1.
Now, she will look to reset and refocus as she prepares for the upcoming tournaments in Indian Wells and Miami, aiming to regain her rhythm and confidence.
