Aryna Sabalenka honestly admits she lacked motivation in loss to Elena Rybakina…

Aryna Sabalenka Admits Lack of Motivation in Loss to Elena Rybakina

Aryna Sabalenka, the world No. 2, opened up about her recent loss to Elena Rybakina in the semifinals of the WTA Finals, candidly admitting that she struggled with motivation during the match. Sabalenka, known for her powerful baseline game and fierce competitiveness, was unexpectedly outplayed by Rybakina, who won in straight sets 6-4, 6-2.

Following the match, Sabalenka reflected on her performance, expressing frustration over her lack of mental readiness. “I just didn’t have that motivation, that drive to fight in every point,” Sabalenka said. “It felt like something was missing, and it showed in the way I played.” The loss marks a disappointing setback for Sabalenka, who has enjoyed a standout season, including winning her first Grand Slam title at the 2023 Australian Open.

Despite her on-court struggles, Sabalenka was quick to acknowledge Rybakina’s stellar performance, praising the Kazakh player’s consistency and composure. “Elena played amazing tennis today, and I couldn’t match her level. She deserved the win,” Sabalenka added, showing maturity in her analysis.

The Belarusian’s loss to Rybakina in the WTA Finals semifinals follows a year of impressive achievements but also moments of inconsistency, particularly in high-stakes matches. Sabalenka has often spoken about the mental challenges that come with being at the top of the women’s game, and this defeat is a reminder of the constant work needed to maintain mental and emotional strength at the highest level.

As she looks ahead to the next season, Sabalenka emphasized the importance of resetting her mindset. “I need to refocus and work on my mental game. It’s not just about the physical aspect of tennis anymore; it’s all about the head,” she said. Fans are hoping this loss will fuel a strong comeback in 2024.