'It doesn’t matter if you are number 1 or number 10': Aryna Sabalenka shuts down ranking pressure after dominant Paris debut

Aryna Sabalenka addressed the pressure of being World No. 1 ahead of a Grand Slam and the weight of expectation surrounding her at this Roland Garros. The Belarusian arrives in Paris after a dominant year and her most recent clay-court title at the Madrid Open just a few weeks ago.

The 3-time Grand Slam champion opened her French Open campaign on Sunday with a routine 6–1, 6–0 win over Kamila Rakhimova. Sabalenka has now reached the second round in a major for the 18th consecutive time, sending a clear message to the rest of the contenders that her level won’t drop in Paris.

Sabalenka focused on performance

At every Grand Slam, the spotlight naturally falls on the World No. 1 and whether they can live up to their top billing. Sabalenka’s recent form has been impressively consistent, reaching six finals and winning three titles this season. Still, she’s not invincible—having suffered a few losses despite her tour-leading 34–6 record.

Nevertheless, Sabalenka no longer feels burdened by the pressure of rankings when stepping onto the court, dismissing the importance of being No. 1. “In 2023, it was quick. I was there for a week, maybe two. Honestly, I don't think about it. Of course, reaching No. 1 was always a goal of mine, but at this point in my career, it really doesn’t matter.”

“You have to focus on yourself, on your game, on improving every day. It doesn't matter if you are number 1, number 2, or number 10. You have to go out and play. You have to hit the court, you have to fight, you have to play your best tennis. And you have to win, day after day. That’s my focus. I don’t feel any more pressure or expectations than when I was number 2 or 10.”

Sabalenka is now into the second round and will be back on court this Wednesday, May 28, to face Swiss player Jil Teichmann. She’ll have a couple of days to recharge before facing an opponent she leads 1–0 in their head-to-head.