'You guys are a joke' - Aryna Sabalenka furious at what she was asked after US Open win

Aryna Sabalenka slammed a reporter who questioned her lifestyle after her emphatic second-round win at the US Open.

The world No.1 swept aside Polina Latcenko 6-1, 6-1 in just 53 minutes at Flushing Meadows, as she goes in search of her third successive US Open victory.

Despite the comprehensive victory in the early hours of Thursday morning, Sabalenka was quizzed on her lifestyle and whether she was fully focused on the tournament after she had been taking part in various brand advertisements ahead of the Grand Slam.

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Sabalenka’s furious exchange with reporter at US Open

Sabalenka had previously been asked about her energy levels following her first-round victory earlier in the week, and was met with more questions about her lifestyle after the win over Latcenko.

Ahead of the US Open, she attended promotional events for Dobel Tequila and Material Good and made an appearance at Gucci's flagship store in New York. She is one of the most recognisable sports stars across the globe, but her increased popularity has led some critics to question her commitment to tennis.

Speaking in her post-match press conference, Sabalenka hit back after a reporter stated she had been at 'a lot of parties' prior to the tournament.

“You guys are like a joke," she fumed. "Parties. Fun. Why would you even say that? Why would you even think about that? Like, what kind of question is that? Just because I posted some activities with brands and you think that I’ve been partying and not training?”

The reporter replied: “I’m not suggesting you were partying; I’m saying there are a lot of events and things like that. I’m not saying you go to the parties.” To which the tennis star stated: “You literally said that.”

The furious exchange continued when the reporter hit back, saying: “Excuse me? For everyone who’s unclear, I’m not suggesting that Aryna is having fun at these parties. I’m saying she makes a lot of appearances and there’s a lot to do.”

Sabalenka then replied, “OK. Move on," before the reporter doubled down with his questioning and offended her once again when he asked if she was now feeling 'serious' about playing tennis.

She sarcastically said: "Oh yeah, I wasn’t serious before that. Next question. Think before you say stuff."

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Sabalenka could lose No.1 status even with US Open win

Sabalenka is aiming to become the first player to win three US Opens in a row, since Serena Williams did so between 2012 and 2014.

She started the 2026 season in blistering form, winning 23 of her opening 24 matches, but has struggled for form in recent months. Sabalenka arrived at Flushing Meadows having lost in the fourth round of her past three tournaments and could lose her spot as World No.1 this month.

To retain the top spot, she must win the trophy once again in New York, and even then it might not be enough. Even if she wins the US Open, Sabalenka would lose No.1 status if Elena Rybakina reaches the semi-finals of the women's singles event.