Sabalenka Firm in the Face of Swiatek's Doping Case: "I Believe in Clean Sport"

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Aryna Sabalenka has had a perfect season in 2024. With two Grand Slam titles and two WTA 1000 trophies under her belt in the last 365 days, she ends the year as the shining world number one, having caught up with Iga Swiatek, who has not had a very positive second part of the season due to a doping violation.

The preseason for tennis players is a crucial part of the year to start with confidence and prevent injury episodes, so Aryna Sabalenka has chosen Saudi Arabia as the location to prepare. She will begin the year with over a thousand points ahead of her main rival, Iga Swiatek. From the Arab country, she granted an interview to The National, where she reviewed her current situation and one of the most surprising cases in the world of tennis in recent months.

- Defending the number one spot

"I can't rely on having the chance to maintain the world number one by defending the Australian Open at the beginning of the year; it's a mental issue. Of course, I'm eager to stay there for as long as possible and work hard for it, but we will see next season. For me, defending the title would mean a lot".

The Belarusian talked about the importance of focusing on oneself: "I believe the key is to focus on yourself and try to give your best, whether in Australia or any other tournament, always giving your utmost. I still have many achievements to unlock in tennis".

- Keeping motivation alive

After achieving multiple Grand Slam titles, becoming world number one, and displaying clear dominance over many opponents, it might be possible for Aryna to lose motivation: "I rarely lack motivation. When I feel I need a boost, I simply remember where I started and how much I wanted to be where I am now, which drives me crazy and helps me stay hungry and motivated all the time".

- Swiatek's Doping Case

Iga Swiatek tested positive for doping, leading to a one-month suspension from tennis, which she served in October. Sabalenka was asked about it, as were other athletes who have also spoken out: "People tend to overreact before understanding things, so I don't want to comment. I believe in clean sports; I can't say more," Aryna emphatically stated.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Sabalenka, tajante ante el caso de dopaje de Swiatek: "Creo en el deporte limpio"