Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus became a three-time Grand Slam champion by defeating American Jessica Pegula in the 2024 US Open final, adding to her two previous major titles from the Australian Open. When asked if she thought about her place in tennis history, Sabalenka revealed that the goal has been in her heart ever since losing her father.
Speaking to the press after her US Open victory, the 26-year-old Sabalenka said:
“After I lost my father, it’s always been my goal to put our family name in the history of tennis. Every time I see my name on that trophy, I’m so proud of myself—I’m proud of my family, that they never gave up on my dream, that they were doing everything they could to keep me going and so I had this opportunity in life. It really means a lot. It’s been always my dream.”
Aryna Sabalenka’s father, Sergey, passed away unexpectedly in 2019 at the age of 43 due to meningitis. Sergey had a profound impact on Aryna’s life, having introduced her to tennis at the age of six by chance when they drove past some tennis courts and decided to give the sport a try. From that moment, he became a key influence in her early career, shaping her journey into professional tennis.
During the post-match interview after her victory in the 2024 US Open final, Sabalenka, who had finished runner-up to Coco Gauff the previous year, shared what it meant to finally triumph in New York: “Oh my God, I’m speechless right now. So many times I was so close to get the US Open title; it has always been a dream of mine. Finally, I got this beautiful trophy. It means a lot.”
Turning to address her opponent, Jessica Pegula, Sabalenka offered heartfelt words: “I know how tough it is to lose in the finals. You’re showing some amazing tennis and I’m more than sure that one day you’re gonna get one, I mean, not one, maybe more, but let’s start from one Grand Slam. Congratulations on a great summer. You’re an amazing player.”