Three-time Grand Slam champion Aryna Sabalenka spoke about her comments following the 2024 French Open final, where she was defeated by two-time Major winner from the USA, Coco Gauff.
“Coco and I have always gotten along very well. Honestly, as I mentioned in my statement and in private messages to her, I really didn`t intend to offend her. I was disappointed in myself; emotions took over. I wasn`t thinking straight at all. I wanted to tell her in person, but I wasn`t sure if she would be in Berlin, so I wrote to her to apologize and make sure she understood me.”
“Of course, I respect her. She knew and knows that. In the video, I said we`re good, we`re friends. I hope the American media doesn`t attack me now.”
Aryna also explained her attitude towards defeats.
“I have to say that usually after losses, I feel quite normal. I know how to lose. It`s usually not a problem for me.”
“But this time, it was very difficult for me. I don`t know why. Emotionally, I wanted to win so badly, and it was unpleasant that it didn`t happen. Sometimes I get too emotionally involved. I would like to fix that. I wish I could maintain the same mindset as during the tournament because I think in the crucial stages, I get too fired up by the desire to win. Sometimes it overwhelms me, and I lose control of my emotions.”
