Aryna Sabalenka and her coaching team have found themselves at the center of controversy following a video that surfaced on social media after her runner-up finish at the 2025 Australian Open. The video appeared to show Sabalenka and two members of her coaching team engaging in what fans have interpreted as a mockery of her runner-up trophy. The trio were seen laughing and performing pelvic thrusts over the trophy, which had been placed on the floor, giving the impression they were pretending to urinate on it.
This incident occurred after Sabalenka’s heartbreaking defeat to Madison Keys, who claimed her first Grand Slam title in Melbourne, denying Sabalenka a historic three-peat. While Sabalenka delivered a classy speech at the trophy presentation, the video of her actions in the locker room drew sharp criticism online.
Fans on X (formerly Twitter) expressed their disappointment, with many calling the behavior “disrespectful” and “disgusting.” Some called for Sabalenka to issue a public apology, believing that the act demeaned the significance of being a Grand Slam finalist.
Despite the backlash, some fans defended Sabalenka, suggesting that the video was likely an attempt to cope with the disappointment of losing in a lighthearted manner. Others interpreted the action as Sabalenka showing her competitive nature, refusing to settle for second place.
Sabalenka’s loss in the final came after a hard-fought tournament in which she defeated her close friend Paula Badosa in the semifinals. In her runner-up speech, Sabalenka graciously congratulated Keys, acknowledged the support she received, and vowed to come back stronger next year.
The controversy surrounding the video has drawn attention to the challenges athletes face in handling defeat, especially on such a significant stage. Sabalenka’s emotional response on and off the court highlights the passion and pressure involved in competing at the highest level of tennis.
