Aryna Sabalenka, a tenacious Belarusian tennis player, personified the spirit of her favourite animal – the tiger, emblazoned on her arm in a tattoo, in New York recently. Overcoming injury and disappointment, she emerged victorious at this year’s US Open.
Despite retaining her title at the Australian Open, Sabalenka faced setbacks with a back injury in Rome and falling ill at the quarter-final in Roland Garros. A shoulder injury prevented her from participating in Wimbledon.
However, showing resilience synonymous with her prominent tiger tattoo, she made a successful return, winning the Cincinnati tune-up event last month, before out-maneuvering her opponents in Flushing Meadows. En route to the final, she conceded just one set and outpaced America’s Jessica Pegula 7-5 7-5, having been the runner-up the previous year, with two more semi-final exploits to her credit.
Sabalenka acknowledged the hurdles she faced both on and off the court. She emphasised her resolve, always bouncing back stronger and more determined, a commendable trait that endeared her to her fans. Her tiger tattoo has become a symbol, with even a young fan sporting a wash-off version and matching kit in round two.
During the championship face-off at Arthur Ashe Stadium, Jason Stacy, her performance coach, also displayed the tiger tattoo on his head, to which Sabalenka responded with a triumphant pat post her win.
Sabalenka shared an anecdote about a fan from Washington who would show up with innovative ideas inspired by her. This fan introduced the temporary tattoos and Jason vowed to wear it should Sabalenka reach the finals.
Sabalenka and Jason have developed a unique pre-match ritual, which involves her autographing his bald head, a quirky routine adopted during her triumphant Australian Open defence. Sabalenka amusingly questions what the next novelty will be.