Andy Roddick defends Aryna Sabalenka after US Open behavior criticism
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 15, 2026, 5:00 PM
Last updated Sep 15, 2026

Andy Roddick publicly defended Aryna Sabalenka following her emotional reaction after losing the US Open final to Elena Rybakina. Sabalenka faced backlash for throwing her racket and smashing it on the court post-match. Roddick emphasized the double standard in sports criticism, suggesting that athletes should be allowed to express frustration without being vilified. He noted that while players should show respect to their opponents, breaking a racket is not a significant issue. Sabalenka has achieved notable success in other tournaments throughout 2026 but has yet to secure a Grand Slam title.
- •Sabalenka lost the US Open final to Rybakina
- •Roddick criticized the backlash against her behavior
- •Sabalenka has won multiple tournaments in 2026
- •She reached the finals at the Australian Open and US Open
- •Discussion continues about sportsmanship and athlete emotions
- 5:00 PMYahoo Sports — Andy Roddick has strong message for anyone criticising Aryna Sabalenka’s behaviour at the US Open, ‘I don’t care’
"Aryna Sabalenka has come under fire for her actions after US Open final. Upon losing the showpiece event to Elena Rybakina, Sabalenka threw her racket...
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