Aryna Sabalenka makes her feelings known on Iga Swiatek's doping ban with strongly-worded message: "I believe in clean sport"

Aryna Sabalenka shared her feelings on arch-rival Iga Swiatek's doping controversy, which led to a one-month tennis ban. She refrained from saying much, noting that people often jump to conclusions without knowing the full story.

Swiatek was at the center of a controversy last month when it was revealed that she had tested positive for the banned substance Trimetazidine (TMZ). The test, conducted as part of an out-of-competition screening, took place on August 12, 2024, under the Tennis Anti-Doping Programme.

The former World No. 1 and her team fully cooperated with the investigation. She later explained that the positive result was due to contaminated melatonin tablets from Poland, which she had been using to help with jet lag and sleep issues.

During a recent interview with The National, Sabalenka, like many others, was asked to comment on the controversy. She responded by saying:

"People are really used to overreacting before figuring stuff out, so I don’t want to leave any comments. I believe in clean sport and nothing else I can add."

Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek are currently competing at the World Tennis League, a mixed-gender team event held in Abu Dhabi. The Belarusian is representing Team Hawks, while the Pole is part of Team Eagles.

"It’s a mental thing" - Aryna Sabalenka on holding onto World No. 1 ranking in 2025 leaving Iga Swiatek behind

Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka pictured at the 2024 WTA Finals | Image Source: Getty

Aryna Sabalenka will enter the 2025 season with a 1,121-point lead over Iga Swiatek in the WTA Rankings. She regained the top spot last month, surpassing the Pole.

When asked about holding onto that, Sabalenka mentioned she would do her best, but she couldn't be fully confident in maintaining it. According to her, it's a "mental" challenge.

"You cannot be confident on that. It’s a mental thing. Of course I’d like to stay there as long as possible and I’m working really hard for that, so let’s see how next season is going to be."

At the Australian Open next month, the World No. 1 is the defending champion and aims to become the first woman since Martina Hingis to win three consecutive titles in Melbourne. Regarding that, she said:

"It would mean a lot. I think the key is just to focus on yourself and on bringing your best each time you play, whether it’s Australia or any other country, you just have to bring your best every time and hope for the best."

Before the first Major of the year begins, Aryna Sabalenka will compete in the Brisbane International to prepare for the event, which starts on December 30.