Aryna Sabalenka addressed a controversy on social media Saturday after a video from her WTA Finals match against Elina Svitolina went viral.
During the third set of the match, which Svitolina won 6-3, 3-6, 6-1, a social media account noted that Sabalenka appeared to be complaining in Russian regarding Ukraine, as reported by an online observer.
Lip-reading of the footage led to speculation that the Belarusian star used profanity directed at Ukrainians, according to Yahoo Sports.
Sabalenka issued a formal apology on her Instagram story, stating that her outburst was not directed at her opponent, as noted by The Tennis Letter.
In her statement, Sabalenka explained, “My comment was not directed at Elina.”
She further clarified the situation, noting, “I was frustrated with a small group of spectators who were aggressively cheering my mistakes, and I reacted emotionally in the moment.”
The former world No. 1 acknowledged that she should have managed her emotions differently, adding, “I apologize to anyone I offended.”
The tournament performance was difficult for Sabalenka, who dropped from No. 2 to No. 3 in the rankings after a challenging season, as previously documented.
Svitolina, who recently announced her divorce from Gael Monfils, advanced to the tournament semifinals following the win, according to reports on her personal situation.
The tournament continues with Mirra Andreeva, who secured a spot in the final after defeating Jessica Pegula.
Andreeva has climbed the live rankings, surpassing Sabalenka for the No. 2 position.
Sabalenka currently holds a 2-4 record since her loss to Elena Rybakina in the US Open final.
The Belarusian athlete concluded her statement by wishing Svitolina well for the remainder of the competition.