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Aryna Sabalenka starts strong at Berlin Open, faces criticism for interview

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 18, 2026, 2:12 AM

Last updated Jun 18, 2026

Aryna Sabalenka starts strong at Berlin Open, faces criticism for interview

Summary

Aryna Sabalenka began her 2026 Berlin Tennis Open campaign with a 6-4, 6-4 victory over Ekaterina Alexandrova in the second round. Following the match, Sabalenka's post-match interview sparked frustration among fans due to perceived bizarre questions regarding her status as world No. 1. During the exchange, she emphasized her focus on improvement rather than resting on her laurels, responding to the interviewer's queries about Roger Federer with skepticism. The conversation drew criticism for being uncomfortable, while Sabalenka's handling of the situation received praise from some fans. She is set to meet Nikola Bartůňková in the quarterfinals after Bartůňková's win over Elise Mertens.

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By the Numbers

•Sabalenka defeats Ekaterina Alexandrova in the second round.
•Post-match interview focuses on her No. 1 status.
•Fans criticize the interview's awkward questions.
•Sabalenka will face Nikola Bartůňková next.
•Bartůňková beat Elise Mertens to advance.

Latest Updates

2:12 AMYahoo Sports — Aryna Sabalenka’s ’Bizarre’ Berlin Interview Involving Roger Federer Leaves Fans Furious

What they're saying

"
Aryna Sabalenka has commenced her campaign at the 2026 Berlin Tennis Open with a dominant victory over Ekaterina Alexandrova in the second round, following her first-round bye. However, the post-match discourse has not focused on her stellar performance but rather on her on-court interview, as tennis fans have voiced their frustration with the questions posed to the world No.
— Yahoo Sports

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