Sabalenka Calls for End to Overbearing Coaches in Tennis

Aryna Sabalenka, the world number one tennis player, criticized coaches who are overly critical and bossy, saying they have no place in the sport. Sabalenka, who has won three Grand Slams and over 20 tour titles, recalled instances where coaches put her down and doubted her abilities. She advised these coaches to quit their jobs, stating they know nothing and are better off leaving the sport. Sabalenka's comments came after her third-round victory at the French Open.

World number one tennis player Aryna Sabalenka has taken a strong stance against overbearing and bossy coaches, advising them to quit their jobs. The Belarusian star, who has won three Grand Slams and over 20 tour titles, made her comments following her third-round victory at the French Open on Friday [1].

Sabalenka recalled instances where coaches had put her down and doubted her abilities. "Some coaches in the past had put me down, saying I would not amount to much in tennis," she said. "They said I'm not smart enough, that I'm stupid, and I'll never make it, and I don't have anything to make it to the top."

The 25-year-old player, who has earned close to $35 million in prize money alone in her career, believes that such coaches have no place in the sport. "I guess I want to send a quick message to them to quit their job, because honestly, I think they know nothing and they better quit just to save other players," she said.

Sabalenka's comments come at a time when she is showcasing her dominance on the clay courts of Roland Garros. She defeated Olga Danilovic of Serbia in straight sets to advance to the fourth round of the tournament [2]. This victory follows her back-to-back Australian Open titles in 2023 and 2024, as well as her 2024 U.S. Open crown.

Her next opponent is Amanda Anisimova, who is seeded 16th and has a 5-2 win-loss record against Sabalenka. Anisimova is looking forward to the match, stating, "Obviously she's one of the best right now. She's number one. I feel it's always a good matchup."

Sabalenka's outspoken criticism of coaches who overstep their boundaries is a reminder of the importance of a positive and supportive environment in sports. Her success on the court is a testament to her resilience and determination, qualities that have helped her overcome the doubts and negativity she has faced in the past.

References:
[1] Reuters. (2025, May 30). Quit your jobs: World number one Sabalenka lashes out at overbearing coaches. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/sports/tennis/quit-your-jobs-world-number-one-sabalenka-tells-overbearing-coaches-2025-05-30/
[2] Reuters. (2025, May 30). Sabalenka, Zheng sizzle in sunny day at French Open. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/sports/tennis/sabalenka-zheng-sizzle-sunny-day-french-open-2025-05-30/