“Aryna Sabalenka’s Coach Sends Fierce Warning to Iga Swiatek Ahead of Intense 2024 Showdown”

Coach Anton Dubrov has confirmed that Aryna Sabalenka’s primary objective for the rest of the season is to secure the World No. 1 spot, but emphasized that her immediate focus is on recovery after an intense US Open campaign, both physically and mentally.

Just 10 days ago, the 26-year-old Belarusian claimed her third Grand Slam title, triumphing at the final Major of the year at Flushing Meadows. Sabalenka now trails Iga Swiatek by two Slam titles and 2,169 ranking points. The race for Year-End No. 1 is particularly close, with Swiatek amassing 8,285 points this season, while Sabalenka has gathered 7,876.

Last season, Sabalenka narrowly missed out on claiming both the World No. 1 ranking and the Year-End No. 1 title during the WTA Finals. This year, she is determined to change that outcome.

Dubrov noted that Sabalenka is focused on surpassing Swiatek for the top spot. “The goal is first to be fit and healthy because recovery will take some time. Our main goal for this season is to finish strong. Of course, we’re aiming for the No. 1 spot, and ending the year as the top player would be amazing. But after such an emotionally and physically draining run in New York, we need to prioritize recovery and figure out how to bounce back quickly before setting those goals. Everyone wants to win four Slams and be No. 1—it’s a great goal, but it takes time to manage,” Dubrov told The National.

After holding the World No. 1 position for 75 consecutive weeks, Swiatek was dethroned by Sabalenka following the 2023 US Open. However, Sabalenka’s previous tenure at the top, which lasted just eight weeks, showed the challenge of maintaining the ranking. As the season continues, it remains to be seen whether Sabalenka can surpass Swiatek in the race for the No. 1 spot.