PARIS — Aryna Sabalenka sent a chilling six-word message to her French Open rivals during Media Day at Roland Garros, declaring: "I'm here to win this tournament."
Sabalenka's Dominant Clay Season
The world No. 2 arrives in Paris riding a wave of momentum after capturing back-to-back clay court titles in Madrid and Rome. Her 15-2 record on clay this season includes victories over:
- Iga Świątek (Madrid semifinals)
- Elena Rybakina (Rome quarterfinals)
- Coco Gauff (Rome semifinals)
"When I step on court now, I know I can beat anyone," Sabalenka told reporters. "My serve is working, my movement is better than ever on clay, and mentally I'm in the right place."
The Six-Word Warning
Sabalenka's blunt declaration during Thursday's press conference wasn't just confidence—it was a strategic statement. Tennis analysts noted how her phrasing differed from the usual platitudes:
- 2023: "I'll try my best"
- 2024: "I hope to compete well"
- 2025: "I'm here to win this tournament"
"That shift in language shows her evolution," noted Tennis Channel analyst Pam Shriver. "She's not hoping anymore—she's expecting to lift the trophy."
Roland Garros Preparation
Physical Adjustments
Sabalenka revealed she's made specific clay-court modifications to her game:
- Added topspin to her backhand
- Reduced first-serve speed by 5-8% for consistency
- Improved sliding technique with new footwear
Mental Approach
"Last year's semifinal loss to Muchova still hurts," Sabalenka admitted. "But now when I feel pressure, I smile. I remember that this is why I train—for these big moments."
Rivals Take Notice
Top contenders responded to Sabalenka's warning:
- Iga Świątek: "Aryna's always dangerous. I'm prepared."
- Elena Rybakina: "Her power is unmatched right now."
- Coco Gauff: "I'll have to serve perfectly."
Even tournament director Amélie Mauresmo weighed in: "Aryna has that champion's aura now. When she walks on court, everyone feels it."
Historical Context
Sabalenka seeks to become the first woman since Serena Williams (2015) to win Madrid, Rome, and Roland Garros in the same season. Her current 12-match winning streak is the longest on tour.
"The numbers don't lie," said former champion Chris Evert. "She's playing the best clay-court tennis of her career at exactly the right time."
Draw Implications
As the No. 2 seed, Sabalenka could face:
- Rybakina in the semifinals
- Świątek in the final
- No Top 20 players until QFs
"The draw is favorable," acknowledged her coach Anton Dubrov. "But as Aryna says, you must beat everyone anyway to win a Slam."
Conclusion
With her combination of raw power and newfound clay-court nuance, Sabalenka has transformed from contender to favorite. As she left her press conference, one final remark lingered: "I didn't come here for croissants. I came for the trophy."
The message couldn't be clearer—Sabalenka isn't just participating in the 2025 French Open. She's arrived to dominate it.