Washington: After a month-long hiatus due to a nagging shoulder injury, world number three Aryna Sabalenka is set to make her triumphant return to the court at the WTA Washington Open. The two-time Australian Open champion is eager to regain her form and confidence ahead of the US Open, which begins on August 26.
Sabalenka, who reached the US Open semi-finals in 2021 and 2022, and finished runner-up last year, is focused on rebuilding her strength and momentum. “I feel like I need to build my confidence back and build my level back before going to the US Open,” she said.
The Belarusian star was forced to withdraw from Wimbledon and skip the Paris Olympics due to her injury and her country’s ban from the Games. Now, she’s ready to get back to business. “I’m here because I got injured and I haven’t played for a while… I need to play some matches and that’s why I’m here.”
Sabalenka’s road to recovery was arduous, involving intense rehab and fitness work in sweltering Florida. “It felt like the whole day I’ve been doing exercises… It was very tough,” she admitted. But the 26-year-old is now feeling physically prepared and hopeful that her injury woes are behind her.
As she takes to the court in Washington, Sabalenka is determined to make a strong comeback and shine at her favorite Grand Slam, the US Open. Will she serve up a winning return? Only time will tell.
