NEW YORK — An awkward post-match press conference at the 2024 US Open took an unexpected turn on Monday when newly crowned women's champion Aryna Sabalenka requested to halt a joint interview with men's champion Carlos Alcaraz, later issuing a public apology for the abrupt conclusion.
The unusual scene unfolded during a traditional champions' press event at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, where Sabalenka and Alcaraz were seated together to answer questions from the media. The atmosphere, initially celebratory, grew increasingly tense as the line of questioning shifted from their respective championship runs to more personal and, at times, uncomfortable topics.
A Champions' Interview Takes an Awkward Turn
Following their triumphant victories—Sabalenka's first US Open title and Alcaraz's second—the two stars were all smiles as they entered the press room. The session began with lighthearted questions about their celebrations and the emotions of winning in Flushing Meadows. However, the dynamic shifted when a reporter asked Sabalenka about the intense pressure she faced as the new World No. 1 and the constant comparisons to her rival, Iga Świątek.
Sabalenka, who had just endured a grueling three-set final against Coco Gauff, appeared visibly drained. As the questions continued, focusing on her mental fortitude and past struggles with on-court pressure, she became increasingly withdrawn. Alcaraz, attempting to lighten the mood with his characteristic charm, interjected with a joke, but the attempt fell flat. Shortly after, Sabalenka leaned into her microphone and politely said, "I am sorry, but I cannot continue this. Can we please stop?"
The Aftermath and a Public Apology
The request stunned the room. Tournament moderators quickly conferred and ended the joint session. Alcaraz was escorted out to continue his media obligations separately, while Sabalenka exited the room. Within hours, the World No. 1 took to her official Instagram account to address the incident directly. In a series of Stories, she expressed regret for how the situation unfolded and clarified that her actions were not a reflection of any issue with Alcaraz.
She wrote, "I need to apologize to the fans and the press. I am sorry for ending the press conference so suddenly today. It was not my intention to be rude or disrespectful to Carlos, who is a great champion and a kind person. I have a lot of respect for him. After the final, I was emotionally drained and it became a little too much for me in that moment."
She further explained her state of mind, stating, "The last two weeks have been incredibly intense, and the emotional toll of winning my first US Open hit me all at once. I felt overwhelmed and knew I needed a moment. Again, my biggest apologies to Carlos and everyone in the room. It was not about the questions, it was about my own exhaustion."
Alcaraz Responds with Understanding
Carlos Alcaraz, speaking in his subsequent solo press conference, was asked about the incident. The 21-year-old Spaniard displayed remarkable maturity and empathy, vehemently defending his fellow champion. He dismissed any notion of tension between them and attributed the event to the immense pressure of the sport's biggest stages.
He told reporters, "Aryna is an amazing person. We spoke backstage and everything is fine. People on the outside maybe don't always understand how exhausting it is, not just physically but mentally. To win a Grand Slam, you give every single part of yourself. Sometimes you have nothing left. I completely understand her reaction. There is no problem between us at all."
A Broader Conversation on Player Well-being
The incident has sparked a wider discussion within the tennis community about the demanding nature of the post-match press conference, particularly following a Grand Slam final. The emotional and physical depletion players experience is immense, and the immediate requirement to face the media is a standard yet often criticized aspect of the tour.
Many analysts and former players have come to Sabalenka's defense, arguing that the format can be overly intrusive, especially in moments of raw vulnerability. The situation highlighted several key pressures faced by modern athletes:
- Emotional Drain: The culmination of a two-week tournament, particularly a victory, involves a massive release of pent-up emotion and adrenaline.
- Mental Fatigue: The constant scrutiny and need to be "on" for interviews and public appearances can be mentally taxing.
- Logistical Overload: The champion's schedule immediately after the final is a whirlwind of media, photos, and ceremonies.
Tennis journalist Ben Rothenberg commented on social media, "What happened with Sabalenka is a stark reminder that these athletes are human beings, not just entertainment robots. The joint presser is a fun idea in theory, but perhaps it's worth reconsidering the timing and format to better protect player well-being after they've just left everything on the court."
Moving Forward from the Incident
Both players have moved past the brief awkwardness, with Sabalenka's apology being widely accepted as sincere. The focus has rightly returned to celebrating their spectacular achievements in New York. Sabalenka's victory cemented her status as a dominant force in the women's game, while Alcaraz's win confirmed his ability to consistently deliver on the grandest stages.
The WTA and USTA have not indicated any plans to formally change the post-final media schedule. However, the event has undoubtedly added fuel to an ongoing conversation about the balance between media access and the psychological welfare of athletes. For now, the tennis world is choosing to focus on the champions' incredible performances rather than a momentary lapse in protocol.
In a final word on the tournament's official podcast, Sabalenka summed it up: "It was a crazy two weeks, an emotional rollercoaster. I am so happy and so tired. I think I just need some sleep and to hug my dog. Thank you to everyone for the support."