Aryna Sabalenka incurs R$ 38 mil fine in US Open title match By Thiago Lemos
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Aryna Sabalenka received a R$ 38 mil fine from US Open organizers in New York on September 12, 2026, after displaying disruptive behavior during the championship match. Elena Rybakina defeated the Belarusian player 2-1 with set scores of 4/6, 7/5, and 2/6 to capture the tournament trophy.
The initial incident occurred during the second set when Sabalenka lost her service game and received a formal code violation from chair officials for smashing tennis balls directly toward spectators sitting in the tournament grandstands. During the final stages of the match, the player smashed another racket violently against the hard surface before directing verbal abuse at an operating cameraman stationed beside the court perimeter. She lost control.
Speaking to reporters after the contest concluded, the athlete described her fiery outbursts as an intentional release of aggression and disappointment.
“It is very difficult to control emotions when you lose a Grand Slam final and you were trying to win the three-peat,” Sabalenka stated regarding her conduct. She reiterated that her reaction stemmed directly from falling short of the title. “I just wanted to release everything, because if I kept that inside me, I would not be able to say a word or I would have a less friendly attitude,” she added. The finalist explained that she preferred to release that aggression openly.
Sabalenka entered the event seeking a third US Open title and aiming to defend her position atop the world rankings. Rybakina secured that top ranking during the Grand Slam semifinal stage and solidified the status by capturing the championship.
