Sport: Tennis Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Aryna Sabalenka loses to Sara Bejlek in Cincinnati, faces backlash

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 2:57 PM

Last updated Aug 20, 2026

Aryna Sabalenka loses to Sara Bejlek in Cincinnati, faces backlash

Summary

Aryna Sabalenka was eliminated by Sara Bejlek in the fourth round of the Cincinnati Open on August 19, losing in straight sets 7-6(9-7), 6-4. Sabalenka's conduct towards a ball kid during the match drew significant criticism online after she expressed visible frustration, prompting backlash from tennis fans. Sabalenka started strong, taking an early lead, but Bejlek rallied to secure the victory, marking her first win against a top-10 player. Sabalenka has struggled since her success earlier in the year, including disappointing performances after the Sunshine Double.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Sabalenka out of Cincinnati Open on August 19.
•Defeated by Sara Bejlek in straight sets.
•Frustration with a ball kid sparked fan backlash.
•Sabalenka took an early 2-0 lead before Bejlek's comeback.
•Bejlek reaches her first WTA 1000 quarterfinal.

Latest Updates

2:57 PMYahoo Sports — “So Disrespectful” – Tennis Fans Slam Aryna Sabalenka After Visible Frustration Towards Ball Kid in Shock Cincinnati Loss

What they're saying

"
Aryna Sabalenka suffered a stunning loss to Sara Bejlek in the fourth round at the Cincinnati Open, but the Belarusian’s conduct toward a ball kid during the game drew more attention. On Thursday, Sabalenka faced Bejlek, but was ousted by the Czech player in straight sets.
— Yahoo Sports

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