Aryna Sabalenka has opened up about the challenges she faced early in her career, admitting she was surrounded by the “wrong people” during her formative years. The Belarusian star made the emotional confession while praising 17-year-old Mirra Andreeva following their Indian Wells final clash.
Sabalenka, who fell to Andreeva in a hard-fought 2-6, 6-4, 6-3 defeat, expressed admiration for the Russian teenager’s maturity and the strong support system she has around her. In a candid moment during her post-match interview, the world No. 1 reflected on how things might have been different for her if she had the same guidance at a young age.
“If I had the same team she has at her age, I’d probably be a better player by now,” Sabalenka said. “Don’t get me wrong, I have the best team right now. But before… it was different.”
She later expanded on her comments in the press conference, acknowledging that while she doesn’t regret her journey, she does recognize that her early career was shaped by influences that may not have had her best interests at heart.
“I don’t have any regrets because it’s my experience. But of course, I wish I had been a little bit smarter at that age or listened to my family more,” she admitted.
Despite the loss at Indian Wells, Sabalenka remains optimistic about her future, setting her sights on the upcoming Miami Open. The reigning Australian Open champion will look to bounce back as she continues her push for dominance on the WTA Tour.
