Aryna Sabalenka has explained her US Open outfit change after facing criticism over her initial black mesh dress. The world No. 1 switched to an orange version of the kit for her opening singles match, saying she was unaware Nike had created a day-session variant especially for her.
Change after criticism
Sabalenka drew backlash when she wore a black mesh dress over an orange sports bra and shorts for a mixed doubles match alongside Novak Djokovic last week. Ahead of the singles event, the Belarusian said she did not care about external opinions, but she changed her outfit when she stepped onto Arthur Ashe Stadium to begin her title defence.
Facing Camila Osorio in round one, Sabalenka still opted for the orange undergarments but co-ordinated them with an orange mesh dress over the top as she claimed a 6-2 6-4 victory. The four-time Major champion later explained that she did not even know Nike had produced a day-session version of the kit.
Sabalenka's explanation
"To be honest, I didn't know that I have a day dress," she said. "I thought I have a black dress with orange underneath. I figured [out] when I went to Nike that I actually have day session and night session, which is just like black and orange for the day."
Tennis fans were swift to condemn her daring black ensemble last week, with numerous commentators branding it "trashy", "tacky" and even labelling it a "clown kit" online. However, Sabalenka remained defiant in the face of criticism, informing reporters on Friday: "Who cares what people think? I love it."
Inspiration and reaction
The top seed went on to elaborate that her Grand Slam attire draws inspiration from the cities hosting the four tournaments. "Surfing for the Australian Open, ballet for Roland Garros, cricket for Wimbledon," she said. "Now it's basketball and we're in New York. Isn't it the perfect fit?"
Supporters, however, remained unimpressed by her latest outfit selection, particularly as she continued to accessorise it with an array of jewellery, including a large golden necklace adorned with multicoloured stones. "It's totally tacky," one person wrote on X, while a second user commented, "Looks ridiculous, especially with that dress. Looks like a bag of oranges."
Message to critics
Following Monday's victory, Sabalenka nearly breached broadcasting guidelines as she almost swore live on Sky Sports while delivering a pointed message to her "miserable haters". Addressing her critics, Sabalenka briefly paused mid-sentence to stop herself from cursing. "Haters? Honestly, I don't want to curse here right now, but they can go and... have fun with their own lives," she said.
It comes weeks after Sabalenka opened up on her recent struggles amid a run of poor form. The world No. 1 has not reached the quarter-finals of her last three events, and ahead of the US Open, confessed that she was "dealing with several things" that had hampered her performances.
