Aryna Sabalenka faced online backlash after repeating comments about her first-round Wimbledon opponent Teodora Kostovic. The world number one discussed the 19-year-old's pre-match statements during a press conference following her second-round win.
Sabalenka defeated Kostovic 6-2, 6-3 in the opening round at Wimbledon. The Serbian player had said beforehand that Sabalenka might struggle with her power.
After beating McCartney Kessler 6-1, 7-6 in the next match, Sabalenka addressed the earlier comments. She said Kostovic appeared to be trying to boost her own self-belief.
Fans responded negatively on social media. Several called on Sabalenka to stop discussing the matter and suggested she should support younger players instead.