Aryna Sabalenka says how long it took to her to get over losing the Australian Open final to Madison Keys’

Aryna Sabalenka’s quest for a third consecutive Australian Open title was dramatically halted by Madison Keys in a thrilling final that went the distance. The loss was a tough pill to swallow for the Belarusian, who had been in imperious form throughout the tournament. The sting of defeat, especially in a Grand Slam final, can linger, impacting a player’s confidence and focus. So, how long did it take Sabalenka to process the disappointment and refocus on her goals?

“This one was the toughest one,” Sabalenka admitted, reflecting on the final. The weight of expectation, the proximity to a three-peat, and the sheer intensity of the match against Keys all contributed to the emotional toll.1 “I think for a week I was still thinking about that match,” she revealed. The replay of key moments, the “what ifs,” and the analysis of her performance likely occupied her thoughts during that period. It’s a natural process for athletes at the highest level, dissecting every detail in search of improvement and understanding.

The two lost games in the final set were particularly agonizing. Sabalenka, known for her aggressive style and powerful hitting, couldn’t quite close out the match, as Keys elevated her game to another level.2 “Honestly, looking back and thinking about those two lost games (in the final set), I didn’t do anything wrong,” Sabalenka explained. This realization is crucial for athletes. Sometimes, even flawless execution isn’t enough, as opponents can simply have their day, playing lights-out tennis. Accepting this element of chance and the opponent’s performance is a key step in moving forward. “She just played out of her mind, and it was her day, there’s nothing to regret,” Sabalenka concluded. This acceptance of the outcome, coupled with the understanding that she had given her all, allowed her to begin the process of healing and moving on.

However, dwelling on the past, even for a week, can be detrimental to an athlete’s mental state. Sabalenka recognized the need to shift her focus and channel her energy towards future challenges.3 “I think right now I’m fully recovered after that tough match,” she declared, signaling her readiness to compete again.4 This mental reset is essential for maintaining momentum and pursuing new goals. The tennis tour is relentless, with tournaments coming thick and fast, and Sabalenka knew she couldn’t afford to linger in the disappointment of Melbourne for too long.

The schedule is indeed demanding, especially after a deep run in a Grand Slam. “The schedule is pretty tough, especially if you make it to the last stage of the Australian Open, then you don’t have much time to recover and prepare yourself for these big events,”5 Sabalenka acknowledged. The physical and emotional toll of a Grand Slam, followed by the quick turnaround for the Middle East swing, presents a significant challenge. However, Sabalenka has a strategic approach to managing this demanding schedule. “I believe I’ll just take these two tournaments as a preparation for the Sunshine one, and I’ll try to build my tennis, and probably take my tennis to the next level in these two events.” This6 pragmatic approach highlights her focus on long-term goals. She’s using the Qatar and Dubai events as a stepping stone towards the “Sunshine Double” in Indian Wells and Miami, recognizing the need to build momentum and refine her game.

The ability to bounce back from setbacks is a hallmark of champions. Sabalenka’s swift recovery from the Australian Open final loss demonstrates her mental fortitude and her unwavering commitment to success. While the disappointment was undoubtedly painful, she used the experience as an opportunity for reflection and growth. Her focus now is on the future, on continuing to improve her game, and on achieving her ultimate goals. The journey of a professional athlete is filled with highs and lows, victories and defeats. It’s the ability to learn from these experiences, to adapt and to persevere, that truly defines a champion. Sabalenka’s response to the Australian Open final loss is a testament to her resilience and her unwavering dedication to the sport. She’s not just moving on; she’s moving forward, stronger and more determined than ever.