Sabalenka seething at WTA Finals organisation – “I feel disrespected, I think most of us do”

The world No 1 continues to hit out at the organisation and facilities of the WTA Finals in Cancun

Aryna Sabalenka (Chryslene Caillaud/Panoramic)

October 30, 2023

World No 1 Aryna Sabalenka made a fine start to her WTA Finals campaign, dismissing Maria Sakkari 6-0, 6-1 as she looks to close in on the year-end top spot as well as the title in Cancun.

Afterwards, though, she expressed her anger at the way the tournament was being organised. Mexico was a relatively late choice of venue for the WTA Finals, with Saudi Arabia linked to the event repeatedly.

And the Belarusian had already said before the tournament that she had been unimpressed with the lack of practice time players had received on the court.

Sabalenka : “To be honest, I don’t feel safe moving on this court”

She took the opportunity after her first match to post a lengthy statement on social media reiterating her opinion had not changed after such a straightforward and comprehensive win.

“I’m happy that I was able to stay focused tonight, overcome the conditions, and play well. I have to say though that I am very disappointed with the WTA and the experience so far at the WTA Finals…as a player I really feel disrespected by the WTA. I think most of us do. This is not the level of organisation we expect for the Finals.

“To be honest, I don’t feel safe moving on this court a lot of the time, the bounce is not consistent at all, and we weren’t able to practice on this court until yesterday for the first time. It’s just not acceptable to me with so much on the line and so much at stake.”

She was, however, quick to voice her thanks to the local tournament team and those who built the court “at the last minute…I know it’s not their fault… I’m very happy to be in Mexico, I’m just upset with the WTA and this situation.”