World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka has defended her US Open outfit after coming under fire for its appearance. The defending women's singles champion is seeking a hat-trick of titles in New York.
Sabalenka is looking to join Serena Williams and Chris Evert as the only female players to win three-straight singles titles at Flushing Meadows in the Open Era. The 28-year-old has struggled, though, for much of 2026, having not won a title of any form since Miami in March.
Return to Arthur Ashe Stadium
The Belarusian's most recent major title came 12 months ago at the US Open, where she beat Amanda Anisimova in straight sets. The four-time Grand Slam champion returned to Arthur Ashe Stadium earlier this week when she partnered men's tennis legend Novak Djokovic in the mixed doubles.
The pair crashed out in round one to Britain's Henry Patten and his Czech partner Katerina Siniakova - although both are prioritising the singles competition.
Outfit Defended
Sabalenka may have only made one appearance ahead of the singles, but her outfit became a divisive talking point on social media. She defended it after the design, a basketball-style attire, was released and has doubled down ahead of facing Camila Osorio in the first round.
Asked about her outfit in Friday's pre-tournament press conference, she said, "I love it. This year it was super special for Nike team. It was always related to different sports."
"Surfing for Australian Open, ballet for Roland Garros, cricket for Wimbledon. Now it's basketball, and we're in New York. Isn't it the perfect fit?"
Social Media Reaction
Sabalenka's Nike dress drew harsh criticism online, with some fans calling her 'trashy' in the outfit. However, she was also defended by several fans, who praised her look in the new attire.
She added: "I love basically everything about my outfit. I love that it's different. I love that this outfit is bold. Whatever people saying on Internet, I heard they probably didn't like it."
"I don't really - it's like it's funny for me, because when Nike was, like, pretty simple and standard, they were complaining. When Nike went really cool and fun and trying to get back, they always complain."
"So who cares about people, right? All matters for me is that I love it. For me, it's super fun. Plus it's really cool for pictures, so..."
