Aryna Sabalenka has spoken out against the WTA’s tournament participation rules, criticizing the demanding schedule and reiterating that she is willing to skip events and accept fines to protect her health.
The World No. 1 was penalized last season after failing to meet the WTA’s minimum requirement for mandatory events. Sabalenka competed in only three WTA 500 tournaments, short of the minimum of six. Under current rules, eligible players must also compete in all WTA 1000s and the Grand Slams.
Speaking to the media after her third-round win over Sorana Cirstea at the 2026 Brisbane International, Sabalenka emphasized how the packed calendar affected her last season.
“The rules are quite tricky with mandatory events. I struggled a lot last season. Even though the results were really consistent, but some of the tournaments I had been playing completely sick or I’ve been really exhausted from overplaying,” Sabalenka said.
She acknowledged that she could once again face penalties this season, but made it clear that her physical well-being remains her top priority.
“So this season we will try to manage it a little bit better, even though they are going to fine me by the end of the season,” she added.
Sabalenka also opined that the congested schedule served organizational interests rather than player welfare.
“It’s really tricky, and I think that’s insane what they do. I think they just follow their interests, but they’re not focusing on protecting all of us,” Sabalenka said.
Sabalenka Says She Wants Battles, Not Easy Wins, In Brisbane Ahead Of Australian Open
Aryna Sabalenka has acknowledged the importance of the WTA 500 Brisbane International, saying the tournament offers the ideal preparation ahead of the first Grand Slam of the season.
“It’s important to have quality matches before heading to the big event, just so you’re preparing yourself mentally for fights, for battles. And playing against top players is definitely a huge help heading into the Grand Slam tournament. So I’m really happy to see most of the top players here in Brisbane. It’s a tough draw, right, but I’m not looking for easy matches. I like to challenge myself. I like to have great battles,” Sabalenka said.
The defending champion has backed up her words with dominant performances on court so far. She opened her campaign with a 6–0, 6–1 win over Cristina Bucsa in the second round before securing a 6–3, 6–3 victory over Sorana Cirstea.
She will next face fifth seed Madison Keys in the quarterfinals, as the Belarusian looks to defend her title Brisbane.
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