FLUSHING MEADOWS, NY — In a stunning revelation that has sent shockwaves through the tennis world, it has been confirmed that Anton Dubrov, the longtime fitness coach and key member of Aryna Sabalenka’s team, recently underwent successful surgery to remove a brain tumor. The news comes just weeks after Sabalenka, the reigning Australian Open champion, made a surprise addition to her coaching staff, hiring former hitting partner Dmitry Tursunov ahead of her impressive run to the 2023 US Open final.
The Belarusian star’s performance in New York was a testament to her immense mental fortitude, as she competed with the heavy personal burden of her close confidant’s health crisis. Dubrov has been an integral part of Team Sabalenka for years, credited with sculpting the powerful physique that forms the foundation of her aggressive, dominating game. His absence from her player’s box during the North American hardcourt swing was noted but initially unexplained.
A Sudden Health Scare and a Team's Resilience
The first indication that something was amiss emerged subtly. During the tournaments leading up to the US Open, Sabalenka was often seen consulting with Tursunov, a respected figure on tour known for his previous successful coaching stints with the likes of Anett Kontaveit and Elena Rybakina. While a new coach can signal a strategic shift, the timing seemed unusual for a player ranked World No. 2 and in strong form.
It was only after her semifinal victory at Flushing Meadows that Sabalenka briefly alluded to her team facing a difficult moment. "My team right now is going through some not super good period," she stated, her voice heavy with emotion. "We're just trying to stay strong and really hope that everything will be fine soon." She did not elaborate further at the time, choosing to focus on her tennis amidst the private struggle.
Sources close to the situation have since confirmed to various tennis publications that Dubrov received his diagnosis shortly after Wimbledon. The tumor was discovered following a series of tests for persistent symptoms. The decision was made to proceed with surgery immediately, a procedure that was reportedly successful in removing the growth. Dubrov is now said to be resting and beginning his recovery process.
Tursunov's Crucial Role as a Temporary Anchor
The hiring of Dmitry Tursunov, therefore, was not merely a tactical decision but a necessary move to ensure stability and continuity for Sabalenka during an emotionally turbulent period. Tursunov, a former top-20 player himself, is familiar with Sabalenka’s game and mentality, having worked with her informally in the past.
His primary role was to provide a steadying on-court presence and maintain Sabalenka’s focus on her title ambitions while her longtime coach faced his health battle. The seamless integration speaks volumes about the professionalism within the camp. Under Tursunov's guidance, Sabalenka displayed a slightly refined game plan in New York, showcasing even more variety and patience to complement her raw power.
The effectiveness of this temporary partnership was on full display as Sabalenka powered through the draw, dropping only one set en route to the final where she was eventually defeated in a thrilling three-set battle by Coco Gauff. The runner-up finish solidified her hold on the World No. 1 ranking and demonstrated her ability to compartmentalize immense off-court pressure.
The Unbreakable Bond of Team Sabalenka
The situation underscores the profound bonds that are often formed within a player’s support team, which functions as a tight-knit family unit for much of the year. Sabalenka’s performance, while undoubtedly for herself, also seemed to be a tribute to her absent coach. Each victory was a step taken for him as much as for her.
In a statement released through Sabalenka’s management, a spokesperson said, "We can confirm that Anton Dubrov recently underwent a successful medical procedure. He is now recovering well and is in good spirits. The entire team, and Aryna most of all, requests privacy for Anton and his family during this time. Our focus is entirely on his full and speedy recovery."
The tennis community has rallied around the news, with an outpouring of support for Dubrov flooding social media from players, coaches, and fans alike. The often-fiercely competitive WTA tour has once again shown its capacity for compassion when one of its own faces a personal crisis.
Looking Ahead: Recovery and Return
For now, the competitive future of Team Sabalenka is on pause. Sabalenka has concluded her season after the WTA Finals in Cancun, where she reached the semifinals. The off-season will provide a crucial period for Dubrov to focus entirely on his rehabilitation without the immediate pressure of tour travel.
The key questions moving forward will concern the long-term structure of Sabalenka’s coaching setup. Tursunov’s temporary role proved exceptionally effective, and it remains to be seen if he will continue in a formal capacity even after Dubrov’s eventual return. What is certain is that the team’s priority is health first, tennis second.
Sabalenka’s 2023 season will be remembered for her maiden Grand Slam title in Melbourne and her ascent to the top of the rankings. But perhaps its most enduring legacy will be the display of resilience and loyalty she and her team showed in the face of profound personal adversity, proving that some things are far more important than trophies.