Tennis

World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka has kicked off her WTA Finals campaign in Riyadh with a dominant 6-3, 6-4 victory over Zheng Qinwen. The Belarusian star is aiming to secure both the year-end title and the No. 1 ranking, and her performance against Zheng was a testament to her determination.Sabalenka's serve proved to be a key factor in her victory. She won an impressive 94% of points on her first serve and committed only one double fault. This allowed her to put Zheng under constant pressure and prevent her from gaining any momentum.The first set was a tight affair, with both players holding serve until the sixth game. Sabalenka finally broke through with a double fault from Zheng, giving her a 4-2 lead. She held her serve in the next game to take the set 6-3.The second set followed a similar pattern, with neither player able to break serve until the ninth game. Sabalenka once again seized the opportunity, breaking Zheng's serve with a powerful backhand return. She then held her serve to close out the match 6-4.Sabalenka praised her serve after the match, saying, "I'm super happy with the win. I think I served really well tonight, and I put her under so much pressure."Zheng, who has been in excellent form this season, was unable to match Sabalenka's consistency. However, she showed glimpses of her potential, particularly with her aggressive groundstrokes.Sabalenka's victory puts her in a strong position to qualify for the semifinals of the WTA Finals. She will face Maria Sakkari in her next match, while Zheng will take on Caroline Garcia.

Aryna Sabalenka, the reigning US Open champion, has made Miami her home away from home. After her triumph at Flushing Meadows, Sabalenka cut short her trip to Fashion Week to celebrate her boyfriend's birthday in Florida."We went home to spend time there and just recharge," said Sabalenka, who has been dating Georgios Frangulis, the founder and CEO of Oakberry acai bowls smoothies.Sabalenka, who hails from Minsk, Belarus, has found solace in Miami, where she trains and plans to spend her vacation after the WTA Finals in Riyadh."I have a lot of plans, but I'm going to probably stay in Florida," Sabalenka said. "It would be cool to feel the home atmosphere and just at home."Miami has become a sanctuary for Sabalenka, especially after she was forced to withdraw from Wimbledon due to a shoulder injury."I was like, 'I'm in Miami!'" she said. "It's beautiful with a lot of stuff to do, a lot of good restaurants. I decided to just enjoy and take everything I can out of this difficult situation."Since recovering from her injury, Sabalenka has been on a tear, winning in Cincinnati, the US Open, and Wuhan to reclaim the world No. 1 ranking."Miami is so chill, so relaxed," Sabalenka said. "Everyone is enjoying life. They're not in a rush. They call it a place for retirement, and it's so chill. But at the same time, the nightlife in Miami is so cool."For those planning a winter getaway, Sabalenka recommends Casadonna, a popular pizza restaurant in Miami."Miami pizza is incredible," she said. "There's so many good restaurants, beaches, nightclubs. It's a cool place to relax, have fun and have good meals!"

The WTA Finals, the season-ending tournament for the top eight women's tennis players, is not just about the title. This year, the year-end No. 1 ranking is also on the line, with Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek vying for the top spot.Sabalenka holds a 1,046-point advantage over Swiatek, but the Pole has a chance to overtake her in Riyadh. The WTA Finals offers up to 1,500 points for an undefeated champion, which is more than enough for Swiatek to close the gap.Swiatek can clinch the year-end No. 1 ranking if she wins the title undefeated, or if she wins the title with a 2-1 or 1-2 round-robin record, provided Sabalenka's results are limited.Sabalenka, on the other hand, can secure the top spot by winning all three of her round-robin matches, or by winning two round-robin matches and reaching the final, or even by winning one round-robin match and reaching the final.The scenario is reminiscent of last year's WTA Finals, where Swiatek pulled off a similar feat, winning the title undefeated while Sabalenka went 2-1 in the round robin and lost in the semifinals.If Swiatek finishes as year-end No. 1, she will become the first woman to achieve the feat for three consecutive years since Ashleigh Barty did so from 2019 to 2021.

The WTA Finals, the season-ending championship for the top eight women's tennis players, will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from October 20-27. The tournament offers a maximum of 1,500 ranking points for an undefeated champion, with players earning 200 points for each round-robin match win, 400 points for a semifinal win, and 500 points for winning the final.The prize money for the WTA Finals is substantial, with the champion earning between $4,455,000 and $5,155,000 depending on results. Players earn $350,000 for each round-robin match win, $1,270,000 for a semifinal win, and $2,500,000 for winning the final. Each player is also guaranteed $335,000 for their participation.The tournament will be played on a hard court surface, and the draw consists of eight singles players and eight doubles teams. Notable players participating include Australian Open and US Open champion Aryna Sabalenka, Roland Garros champion Iga Swiatek, Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova, and Americans Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula.The WTA Finals are a prestigious event that showcases the best women's tennis players in the world. The tournament provides a glimpse into the season that has passed, as the players who have earned the highest number of ranking points throughout the year qualify for the event.

WTA Finals: Stars Shine in Riyadh with Stunning FashionThe WTA Finals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, has kicked off with a dazzling display of fashion and athleticism. The world's top tennis players gathered for the traditional pre-tournament photo shoot and gala, showcasing their impeccable style and the latest trends.World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, defending champion Iga Swiatek, and the rest of the season-ending championship competitors stepped out in the historic district of Diriyah, adorned in garments from renowned designers.Zheng Qinwen turned heads in a vibrant red Christian Dior dress, while Coco Gauff opted for a delicate blush pink gown by Saudi-born designer Yousef Akbar. Elena Rybakina exuded elegance in Elie Saab, and Jasmine Paolini chose a sophisticated sand-colored gown by Brunello Cucinelli.Rybakina praised her fellow players' fashion choices, particularly Paolini's stunning ensemble. "Jasmine Paolini looked really good sitting by that chair," she remarked.The players' preparation for the photo shoot was a glamorous affair. Makeup artists and hairstylists worked their magic, transforming the athletes into fashion icons.The action on the court begins on Saturday, with Sabalenka facing Zheng and Rybakina taking on Paolini in singles action. In doubles, Siniakova and Townsend will face US Open winners Lyudmyla Kichenok and Jelena Ostapenko, while Hsieh Su-wei and Elise Mertens take on Nicole Melichar-Martinez and Ellen Perez.The WTA Finals in Riyadh promises to be a thrilling spectacle, both on and off the court. The players' stunning fashion choices have set the stage for an unforgettable event that celebrates the intersection of sports and style.

Aryna Sabalenka, the former and future world No. 1, is embracing her newfound fame and multitasking with ease. Despite her absence from the Wuhan Open for five years, she remains a fan favorite, signing autographs and interacting with fans.Sabalenka's popularity extends beyond tennis, with her viral dance videos and celebrity encounters. She aspires to launch her own fashion line, inspired by her love for style and her iconic tiger tattoo.Despite her success, Sabalenka has faced adversity, including the loss of her father and ex-partner. However, she has emerged stronger, using these challenges as motivation.On the court, Sabalenka is transforming into a complete player, working with a biomechanic coach to improve her technique. Her powerful groundstrokes and newfound consistency have made her a formidable opponent.Off the court, Sabalenka's charisma and self-deprecating humor have won over her peers. She has formed friendships with Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff, who appreciate her empathy and infectious personality.As she prepares for the WTA Finals, Sabalenka is focused on handling the pressure and finishing the year as world No. 1. Her unwavering belief in her abilities and her ability to overcome challenges make her a formidable contender.

Aryna Sabalenka's Unintentional Soccer Shot Hits Photographer at WTA Finals EventWorld No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka's attempt at a penalty kick during a visit with youth soccer players in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, took an unexpected turn when her shot veered off target and struck a WTA Finals photographer in the head.The incident occurred as Sabalenka and Ons Jabeur, who is in Riyadh to support the event, were interacting with the young girls. Sabalenka's attempt to showcase her soccer skills went awry when her shot missed the goal and hit the photographer, who was kneeling to capture the moment.Sabalenka immediately rushed over to apologize to the photographer, who was not injured and took the incident in good humor. Jabeur also checked on the photographer's well-being, joking that she "didn't have insurance."The photographer later posted a video of the incident on social media, with a humorous caption acknowledging Sabalenka's "serious damages" in Riyadh.Despite the mishap, Sabalenka and Jabeur continued their visit with the youth soccer players, engaging in conversations and posing for photos. The two players were also presented with personalized Saudi soccer jerseys with their names and the number '34' on the back, representing the bid year for the 2034 World Cup.Jabeur, who has been a vocal advocate for the WTA Finals to be held in Saudi Arabia, expressed her belief that the country is making progress in terms of women's rights and that it is time for the WTA to support the event in the Gulf country.

The WTA rankings have undergone significant changes this week, with Jasmine Paolini making history as the highest-ranked Italian player ever. Paolini's rise to No. 4 is a testament to her consistent performances throughout the season. She ties the record set by Francesca Schiavone in 2011, becoming the second Italian woman to reach the Top 4.Meanwhile, the gap between world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka and No. 2 Iga Swiatek has widened significantly. Sabalenka's 10th week at the top of the rankings is a milestone, but Swiatek's impressive run at last year's WTA Finals has given her a substantial lead.On the men's side, Jack Draper has made a remarkable leap into the Top 15, becoming the first British player to achieve this feat since Andy Murray in 2016. Draper's victory at the ATP 500 event in Vienna has propelled him to No. 15, surpassing Ugo Humbert as the top-ranked left-handed player.Other notable movers include Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, who has shattered his previous high ranking by rising to No. 31 after winning the ATP 500 title in Basel. Czech teenager Jakub Mensik has also made his Top 50 debut, becoming the second player born in 2005 or later to achieve this milestone.On the women's side, Diana Shnaider has broken into the Top 15 for the first time, reaching No. 14 after reaching the semifinals in Tokyo. Olga Danilovic has made a significant jump to No. 52 after capturing the WTA 250 title in Guangzhou. Former No. 4 Sofia Kenin has also made a welcome return to the Top 100, rising to No. 88 after reaching the final in Tokyo.These rankings changes reflect the dynamic nature of the sport and the emergence of new stars. Paolini's historic achievement and Draper's Top 15 debut are testaments to their hard work and dedication. The upcoming season promises to be filled with exciting matches and further shake-ups in the rankings.

Aryna Sabalenka, the reigning Australian Open and US Open champion, has added another prestigious accolade to her resume by becoming a brand ambassador for Audemars Piguet. This partnership marks a significant milestone in the tennis star's career, solidifying her status as a global icon.Audemars Piguet, a renowned Swiss watchmaker established in 1875, is known for its exceptional craftsmanship and ultra-luxe timepieces. Sabalenka joins an esteemed roster of "friends of the brand," including Grammy-winning artists John Mayer and Travis Scott, and fellow tennis legend Serena Williams.Sabalenka's appointment as a brand ambassador is a testament to her unwavering determination and pursuit of excellence. Audemars Piguet recognized her relentless spirit and her ability to inspire a new generation of watch enthusiasts and sports fans worldwide.In her new role, Sabalenka will collaborate with Audemars Piguet to explore innovative horizons in watchmaking. She will also connect with fans and share her passion for the sport and the brand's exceptional timepieces.Sabalenka's partnership with Audemars Piguet was celebrated with a visit to the brand's headquarters in Le Brassus, Switzerland. She toured the museum and atelier, witnessing firsthand the intricate craftsmanship and horological evolution of the company."I am so excited and honored to join the Audemars Piguet family," Sabalenka said on Instagram. "Thank you for showing me around your beautiful grounds in Switzerland."The announcement of Sabalenka's ambassadorship comes shortly after her triumph at the Wuhan Open, where she claimed her third title. Her victory was marked by a stunning display of her growing Audemars Piguet collection, including a vibrant sky-blue strap watch that complemented her post-match attire.Sabalenka's partnership with Audemars Piguet is a testament to her exceptional talent, both on and off the court. As she prepares for the season-ending WTA Finals Riyadh, she will undoubtedly continue to inspire fans and showcase the brand's commitment to excellence.