Sabalenka: Neither Russians, nor Belarusians, nor, of course, Ukrainians wanted war
"But I'm young, what do I know about politics?"
Aryna Sabalenka at a press conference after winning the Miami tournament in March 2026. Photo: Mauricio Paiz/NurPhoto via Getty Images
The world number one was reminded about the situation at Roland Garros when she was asked about the war in Ukraine: "It seems that was a few years ago (in 2023). What did you learn from that experience when you were asked to speak out about your country's government or about your stance on various geopolitical issues?"
— I don't agree with how people attacked me back then. It was not an easy moment. Obviously, no one wanted this war — neither Russians, nor Belarusians, nor, of course, Ukrainians.
And it was so difficult that I had to say something. I had to express my opinion, but I'm not an expert. Why should I even talk about it? And we saw other players discussing all this and pointing fingers at us, as if we had something to do with it. The moment was very tense, just crazy. I was young — I'm still young, but when all this happened four years ago, how old was I? 23? What do I know about politics? Why are you asking me about this?
"I don't understand why all these journalists ask athletes questions on this topic," answered Aryna Sabalenka, writes "Sport of Belarus".
During the Roland Garros tournament, held in 2023, Sabalenka initially refused to comment on the war in Ukraine, after which her press conferences were held in a semi-secret regime or did not take place at all.
However, after the 1/4 final, in which she defeated Ukrainian Elina Svitolina, Aryna was again asked at a press conference about the war and whether she supported Lukashenka.
"Well, that's a difficult question. I don't support the war, which means I don't support Lukashenka right now," said Sabalenka.
A month later at Wimbledon in London, Aryna said she would no longer talk about politics.
"Before we continue, I would like to say that I am not going to talk about politics. I am here only to talk about tennis. Please respect that," she said at the briefing before the start of the tournament.
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Comments
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а зачем ты тогда приходишь на интерью?
"Відавочна, што ніхто не жадаў гэтай вайны — ні расіяне, ні беларусы, ні, канешне, украінцы."
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это очень жалкая, ничтожная, лицемерная позиция. если бы никто войны не хотел то ее бы и не было.