Amid growing controversy in the world of women’s tennis, Aryna Sabalenka has surprised everyone by breaking her silence with a forceful statement defending Jasmine Paolini, who was recently harshly criticized by some in the press and fans. The world number 2 was dubbed by some commentators as “the worst number 2 tennis player in history,” a comment that has sparked outrage, divided opinions, and an unexpected gesture of solidarity from Sabalenka.
It all started after Paolini’s early defeat at a minor tournament, where, despite her privileged position in the WTA rankings, she fell to a player outside the top 100. Social media erupted with mockery and cruel comparisons, and the most acidic commentators were quick to follow. The Italian was the target of memes, questionable headlines, and a wave of criticism that quickly turned personal.
For days, Aryna Sabalenka, one of Paolini’s main rivals on tour, made no public statements on the issue. There was speculation about whether she agreed, preferred to stay out of the way, or simply didn’t want to get involved. But during the press conference following her victory in the Madrid semifinals, Sabalenka decided it was time to speak out. And she did so forcefully.
When asked about the controversy surrounding Paolini, Sabalenka stopped, stared at reporters, and uttered eight words that immediately went viral:
“Worst number 2, but she still beats you.”
The words resonated like a sharp punch in the air. The room fell silent instantly. The journalists didn’t know whether to applaud, laugh, or continue asking questions. Within seconds, the phrase became a worldwide trending topic. Social media, which had previously been filled with criticism of Paolini, was now flooded with messages of respect for Sabalenka for her courage and loyalty to another player on the tour.
But Sabalenka didn’t stop there. The next day, she surprised everyone by personally inviting Paolini to train with her on Center Court, in front of the cameras and the audience. The training session was friendly, full of smiles, jokes, and even a hug at the end. A clear, direct, and elegant gesture of support.
In a subsequent interview, Sabalenka added: “Jasmine has worked very hard to get where she is. Being number 2 in the world doesn’t come as a gift. No one should be judged by one bad day. If I had to be judged by every match I lose, I wouldn’t be here talking to you.”
The reactions were quick to come. Serena Williams praised Sabalenka in an Instagram story: “This is what tennis needs: respect and sisterhood.” Rafael Nadal also commented: “Sometimes sport can get cruel. Congratulations to Aryna for standing up for what’s right.”
Even Jasmine Paolini herself, visibly moved, expressed her gratitude for the gesture. “I didn’t expect anything from anyone. What Aryna did was… beautiful. It reminded me why I love this sport.”
The main critics who initially attacked Paolini have now been forced to qualify their opinions. Some have even publicly apologized for their comments, acknowledging that they crossed lines they shouldn’t have.
Meanwhile, Paolini has begun to regain her confidence. In the following tournament, she advanced to the quarterfinals, defeating two top-10 players. At the end of her final match, she raised her racket, looked toward Sabalenka’s box, and flashed a smile.
What began as a controversy has turned into one of the most emotional stories on the women’s tennis circuit. Aryna Sabalenka has proven herself not only a warrior on the court, but also a leader off it. With just eight words, she achieved what many speeches fail to do: change the narrative.
Beyond points, rankings, and titles, true sport is also measured in values, respect, and humanity.
