Aryna Sabalenka admitted she was deeply disappointed after falling short in the Australian Open final, but insisted she is moving in the right direction despite another painful loss on the biggest stage.
Speaking to the media after the match, Sabalenka acknowledged Elena Rybakina’s level, reflected honestly on missed opportunities, and showed a mix of frustration, self-awareness and determination for what lies ahead.
“She played incredible tennis when it mattered most”
Sabalenka credited Rybakina for her composure and aggression, particularly during the decisive moments of the third set.
“I had my opportunities,” Sabalenka said. “I missed a couple, but that’s tennis. Today you’re a loser, tomorrow you’re a winner. She stepped in, played incredible points, and took her chances.”
After leading 3–0 in the final set, Sabalenka saw the momentum swing rapidly as Rybakina raised her level and dictated play with fearless aggression.
“From one moment to the next it felt like it was 3–4 and I was down a break. It happened very fast. She had nothing to lose, and she played great.”
Regret, frustration — and perspective
While Sabalenka admitted she felt upset with herself, she resisted framing the loss as a failure.
“Of course I have regrets,” she said. “When you’re leading and it turns so quickly, it’s hard. Maybe I should have been more aggressive on my serve, but overall I played great tennis here in Australia — even in this final.”
The Belarusian also spoke candidly about her emotional state after the match, describing a mix of laughter and tears as she tried to process the disappointment.
“I was laughing and crying at the same time. It was hysterical. Nothing productive came out of it — I just had to let everything go.”
Taking Grand Slam finals one at a time
Asked about her record in major finals, Sabalenka said she treats each loss individually rather than as part of a larger pattern.
“Different players, different situations, different problems,” she explained. “Some finals I played incredible tennis. This one was also at a very high level. I take them one by one.”
She also noted clear progress compared to previous seasons.
“I feel like it was much better than last year — my decisions, my mentality, my fight. I stayed there the whole match. I still lost, but I’m moving in the right direction.”
Respect for Rybakina — and belief moving forward
Sabalenka praised Rybakina’s recent rise, pointing to increased confidence and decisiveness as key factors.
“She goes for her shots without doubt now. She’s more aggressive, more confident, and she deserved this title.”
Despite the disappointment, Sabalenka made it clear her ambitions remain unchanged.
“Right now, I don’t want to think about tennis. But the goals are the same — keep fighting, keep working, and if I get another chance in a final, go out there and do my best.”
👉For full match context, read our in-depth final analysis, explore Elena Rybakina’s on-court interview after lifting the trophy, and revisit our Australian Open 2026: Day 14 Preview.