US Open champion Aryna Sabalenka voiced her irritation with a New York Times reporter on Wednesday, responding sharply to a question about her mood and off-court activities following her second-round victory. The exchange occurred after Sabalenka's dominant 6-1, 6-1 win over Polina Iatcenko.
Matthew Futterman of The Athletic, a New York Times-owned website, asked Sabalenka about her mood entering the tournament, referencing "lots of parties and fun and stuff like that" in the preceding week. Sabalenka took exception to the premise of the question, interpreting it as an insinuation that her off-court engagements would affect her focus.
"You guys are like a joke," Sabalenka stated. "Parties? Fun? Why would you even say that? Why would you even think about that? Like, what kind of question is that? Just because I posted some activities with brands and you think that I've been partying?"
Futterman attempted to clarify, stating he was not suggesting she was unfocused but rather acknowledging her numerous appearances and events. However, Sabalenka remained unconvinced. "You literally said that," she replied.
Futterman further explained to other reporters present that he did not intend to imply Sabalenka was having fun at parties, but that she had many obligations. Sabalenka responded with a simple "OK."
In a final attempt to reframe the question, Futterman asked if she found herself getting serious and "combative" now that the tournament had begun. Sabalenka responded sarcastically, "Oh yeah, I wasn't serious before that. Next question." She concluded the exchange by advising the reporter to "Think before you say stuff."
The incident followed a day where Sabalenka's on-court attire had drawn attention. The world No. 1 had previously appeared in a black, basketball-inspired outfit that exposed an orange sports bra and briefs, and later in a fully orange ensemble. For her second-round match, she wore a similar black outfit, but with black undergarments. Sabalenka had explained that sponsor Nike had provided day and night versions of the outfit, with black intended for night sessions.
Sabalenka has previously addressed scrutiny over her outfits, stating, "Who cares what people think? I love it."
Sabalenka is scheduled to play Kamilla Rakhimova in the third round on Friday.