Sabalenka Apologizes to Gauff: Addressing ‘Unprofessional’ Comments After French Open Final Loss

Aryna Sabalenka has reached out to Coco Gauff to express her apologies for comments she made after losing to Gauff in the French Open final. In an interview with Eurosport Germany, Sabalenka admitted that her remarks were unprofessional.

After the match, Sabalenka suggested that her errors were the main reason for her defeat, downplaying Gauff’s performance. She remarked, “I think she won the match not because she played incredible… just because I made all of those mistakes.” This statement sparked some controversy.

Now, reflecting on her post-match words, Sabalenka acknowledges her mistake. “I let my emotions get the better of me. I absolutely regret what I said back then,” she said. “We all make mistakes and have days when we lose control.”

In her message to Gauff, Sabalenka clarified that she never meant to attack her. She wanted to make sure Gauff knew she deserved to win. “I respect her,” Sabalenka added. “I was emotional and not very smart at that press conference.”

Interestingly, in that final match, Sabalenka hit 37 winners but also committed 70 unforced errors. Gauff, on the other hand, had 30 winners and 30 unforced errors. This contrast highlights the pressure both players faced during high-stakes moments.

Sabalenka has learned valuable lessons through her experiences. She noted that she often shows respect to her opponents, win or lose. “Without that respect, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” she explained.

This situation reflects a broader trend in sports where athletes often grapple with their emotions in high-pressure environments. According to a recent survey by the International Journal of Sports Science, nearly 60% of athletes report that emotional management significantly impacts their performance.

As Sabalenka continues to grow, her journey emphasizes the importance of humility and respect in sports. For more insights on athlete psychology, check out this study from the American Psychological Association.

Overall, this moment serves as a reminder that even elite athletes are constantly learning and evolving, both on and off the court.

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