‘You guys are such a joke’: Aryna Sabalenka fires back at reporter about ‘party’ talk in tense US Open press conference | Tennis News

World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka interrupted a journalist’s question during her post-match press conference after being asked whether events and brand appearances ahead of the US Open included “parties and fun.”“This exchange came after defending champion Sabalenka defeated Polina Iachenko 6-1, 6-1 in the second round on Wednesday. This was the second consecutive press conference in which she was asked about her pre-tournament activities.The defending champion rejected suggestions that her appearance off the field had affected her preparations.“You guys, it’s like a joke. Parties, fun… Like, why would you say that? Why would you think that? What kind of question is that?” Sabalenka said.“Just because I posted some activities with brands, and you thought I was partying, not working out?” She added before ending the exchange.After the discussion moved back to tennis, Sabalenka said she was happy with her performance and the way she approached the matches.“I’ve worked hard, but I feel like I’m moving away from trying to be perfect on the court,” Sabalenka said. “I know you can’t be perfect, and I’m just trying to work with what I have right now.”The Belarusian is bidding to win a third consecutive US Open title while also looking to avoid ending the year without a Grand Slam title. Her last title came at the Miami Open last March.Sabalenka admitted that she went through a difficult period during the middle of the season, but she believes that she has recovered mentally and physically.The 28-year-old said: “I think I suffered a little bit in the middle of the season. Again, I will not defend myself or explain why or what happened, but I am happy with my level.”“I can definitely say I’m mentally stronger than I was midway through the season, and I also feel physically stronger. I feel like I’m on my game, and I just want to focus properly on the game every time.”