Aryna Sabalenka Reflects on Watching Men’s Tennis and Mental Strength in the Game
Aryna Sabalenka continues her remarkable form in 2025, having just secured a spot in the Miami Open final. The world number one has now reached four finals this season after an impressive victory over Jasmine Paolini in the semi-finals.
Sabalenka, who previously defeated Qinwen Zheng to advance to the last four, dominated Paolini with a commanding 6-2, 6-2 win. Now, she sets her sights on home favorite Jessica Pegula, the opponent she bested to claim the US Open title last September.
Sabalenka’s Approach to Watching Tennis
Ahead of the WTA 1000 final, Sabalenka spoke to the media about her viewing habits and what she gains from watching professional tennis.
“Tennis is always on my TV. I don’t know why,” Sabalenka said with a smile. “Lately, I’ve actually been enjoying watching it. It’s crazy—I must be getting old!”
She explained her keen interest in analyzing both men’s and women’s matches, looking for insights that can improve her game.
“When I watch men’s tennis, I focus on what they do differently. There are obviously many differences, but I try to pick things I could practice and bring onto the court,” she said.
As for the WTA matches, her approach is more strategic: “When I watch the women play, I analyze where they struggle, what they do well, and take mental notes.”
However, Sabalenka emphasized that the mental aspect of the game intrigues her the most.
“I’m always curious about how players handle pressure, especially in men’s matches. I watch to see how they react in tight situations and what choices they make under stress. That’s something I always keep in mind.”
Head-to-Head: Aryna Sabalenka vs. Jessica Pegula
| Tournament | Winner | Loser | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 US Open – F | Aryna Sabalenka | Jessica Pegula | 7-5, 7-5 |
| 2024 Cincinnati – F | Aryna Sabalenka | Jessica Pegula | 6-3, 7-5 |
| 2023 WTA Finals – RR | Jessica Pegula | Aryna Sabalenka | 6-4, 6-3 |
| 2022 WTA Finals – RR | Aryna Sabalenka | Jessica Pegula | 6-3, 7-5 |
| 2022 Rome – 3R | Aryna Sabalenka | Jessica Pegula | 6-1, 6-4 |
| 2021 Madrid – 3R | Aryna Sabalenka | Jessica Pegula | 6-1, 6-2 |
| 2020 French Open – 1R | Aryna Sabalenka | Jessica Pegula | 6-3, 6-1 |
| 2020 Cincinnati – 3R | Jessica Pegula | Aryna Sabalenka | 6-2, 2-6, 6-3 |
Sabalenka Leading the 2025 ATP/WTA Rankings
Sabalenka’s outstanding performances have placed her atop the WTA rankings, surpassing Madison Keys and even ATP’s world number one, Jannik Sinner, by over 1,000 points.
| Rank | WTA/ATP | Name | Points | Best Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | WTA | Aryna Sabalenka | 3,230 | F – Australian Open |
| 2 | WTA | Madison Keys | 3,009 | W – Australian Open |
| 3 | WTA | Mirra Andreeva | 2,565 | W – Dubai Tennis Championships/Indian Wells |
| 4 | WTA | Iga Swiatek | 2,315 | SF – Australian Open |
| 5 | ATP | Jannik Sinner | 2,000 | W – Australian Open |
| 6 | WTA | Jessica Pegula | 1,810 | F – Miami Open* |
| 7 | ATP | Alexander Zverev | 1,665 | F – Australian Open |
| 8 | ATP | Jack Draper | 1,540 | W – Indian Wells |
| 9 | ATP | Carlos Alcaraz | 1,410 | W – Rotterdam Open |
| 10 | WTA | Clara Tauson | 1,365 | F – Dubai Tennis Championships |
A win in Miami would further solidify Sabalenka’s position at the top, extending her lead ahead of the upcoming clay court season. However, Pegula is eager to claim a significant victory on home soil, setting the stage for an exciting final on Saturday, March 29
