Aryna Sabalenka Responds as Man Tries to Kick Her Off Table in Miami Restaurant
Aryna Sabalenka found herself in an awkward exchange at a Miami restaurant when a man confronted her and her group, demanding they vacate their table. The incident occurred just two days after Sabalenka’s triumph at the Miami Open, where she defeated Jessica Pegula in the final, avenging back-to-back losses at the Australian Open and Indian Wells.
A Heated Exchange
The Belarusian star was celebrating her victory over dinner with her coaching team and her boyfriend, Brazilian businessman Georgios Frangulis. The evening took an unexpected turn when a visibly frustrated man approached their table.
“You’re not the only ones waiting for a table,” the man said.
Sabalenka coolly responded with a single word: “Chill.”
The man continued: “Wrap it up. Guys, I’m not trying to be rude, but other people are waiting for this table.”
Jason Stacy, a member of Sabalenka’s team, fired back: “And we were here first, so that’s too bad, I guess.” Meanwhile, Frangulis challenged the man: “Do you realize who you are talking to? Do you know who this is? She’s like the queen of Miami.”
Unfazed, the man replied, “I don’t care who it is! I also have a table. I’m just asking if you guys can speed it up. I know the owner, and he can come out and get this table.”
As the confrontation continued, a restaurant staff member intervened. Sabalenka, maintaining her composure, started laughing and jokingly held up her plate, offering the man some food: “Do you want a snack?”
A Prank Gone Viral
Despite the apparent tension, it was later revealed that the entire exchange was a staged prank. The man in question was TikTok prankster Aris Yeager, known for his online persona “Louis.” His character portrays an entitled, ultra-rich socialite who creates confrontational public scenarios for comedic effect.
Yeager’s TikTok account, boasting nearly two million followers, regularly features similar skits. Speaking to The New York Times in December, he explained: “I recognize how preposterous it is. I just know exactly how to do this character. My whole life I’ve been surrounded by pretentious, affluent kids who act a certain way. It’s almost like I instantly know all the humor.”
Sabalenka’s Reaction
Although Sabalenka handled the situation with humor and grace, the viral video sparked debate online. Some fans found the prank amusing, while others criticized it as an unnecessary disturbance.
Regardless, Sabalenka appears to be enjoying her victory and remains focused on the rest of the season. With her Miami Open title secured, she now turns her attention to the upcoming clay-court swing, hoping to continue her strong form on the road to Roland Garros.
