Serena Williams shared her admiration for Aryna Sabalenka's on-court intensity during an appearance at Fanatics Fest in Manhattan. The 23-time Grand Slam champion noted that she was not permitted to express anger in the same way during her career.
Williams spoke about the world No. 1 at the event on July 24. “Sabalenka is number one. Okay. She’s such a spitfire,” she said. “I see myself in that. And so I love that. I love that about her. And when she’s losing, she’s mad. And I wasn’t allowed to express my anger, but I love how she’s allowed to express her anger.”
The comments referenced Williams' own experiences, including the 2018 US Open final against Naomi Osaka. She received three code violations during that match while chasing a record-equaling 24th major title.
Sabalenka has drawn attention for similar displays, such as smashing a racquet at the US Open and animated exchanges with her coaching box. She has stated that these moments are pre-agreed with her team and not personal.
Williams played on the Wimbledon Center Court on July 1 at age 44. Her former coach Rennae Stubbs has previously criticized some of Sabalenka's post-match comments.