Aryna Sabalenka says there’s something she has to say about Iga Swiatek after training alongside each other recently
Aryna Sabalenka looks certain to renew her exciting rivalry with Iga Swiatek in 2025, having stolen her number one spot late last season.
Sabalenka was the WTA year-end number one, with Swiatek dropping into second after serving a ban for a positive drug test.
The duo played out three entertaining matches in 2024, two of which were in finals that were won by Swiatek.
Their Madrid Open final was the WTA Match of the Year, with the Pole taking her win-loss record versus Sabalenka to eight-four.
But it seems like the rivalry is one of mutual respect as opposed to a dislike of one another, with Sabalenka and Swiatek having trained together earlier this month.
What Aryna Sabalenka has to say about Iga Swiatek after training together
Discussing that training session in Abu Dhabi, the Belarusian said in her Brisbane International opening press conference: “Yeah, it was fun.
“It all started on The Finals. I asked her to do TikTok. I was, Okay, whatever, I’m going to ask and see what happens.
“I thought we have to stay together and have fun and just enjoy our rivalry, not be too tough on each other.
READ MORE: Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek both confirmed to play in WTA tournament in 2025
“So I asked. We did it. Since that we already practised a couple of times. Then I was doing fitness after our hit. She was like, I can join you guys. I am like, Yeah, let’s do that.
“We filmed it and posted it. It’s been becoming more chill between us, too. I have to say she’s a really nice person. It was fun to get to know each other.”
Who is Aryna Sabalenka playing at the Brisbane International ahead of the Australian Open?
Both players will have been using the training session to get into the best shape possible for the new season.
They will, however, have been very careful not to give anything away on the court, particularly any new changes to their games.
READ MORE: Sam Stosur picks the two women she really wants to make the Australian Open final in her ‘dream’ match
Sabalenka will be desperate to keep her number one ranking, with Swiatek certain to want it back as soon as possible.
The former is now preparing for an Australian Open title defence, with those preparations now involving participation at the Brisbane International.
Sabalenka, the number one seed at the tournament, has been drawn to face Mexican Renata Zarazua in the round of 32.
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