ARYNA SABALENKA has addressed her controversial comments after losing the French Open final to Coco Gauff.
The 21-year-old American won the second Grand Slam title of her career at Roland Garros on Saturday.
Coco Gauff won the second Grand Slam title of her career at the French Open[/caption]
Aryna Sabalenka could not hide her emotions during the presentation[/caption]
In windy conditions on Court Philippe Chatrier, Gauff profited from her rival’s 70 unforced errors to win 6-7 6-2 6-4.
A teary Sabalenka said post-match that it “hurt to show such terrible tennis” in what she called “the worst final I ever played”.
The world No1 then added: “I think she won the match not because she played incredible. Just because I made all of those mistakes.”
Her remarks sparked outrage among Gauff fans that felt her victory was being disrespected.
Sabalenka has now addressed her comments in an Instagram post, writing: “Yesterday was a tough one. Coco handled the conditions much better than I did and fully deserved the win.
“She was the better player and I want to give her the credit she earned.
“You all know me… I’m always going to be honest and human in how I process these moments.
“I made over 70 unforced errors, so I can’t pretend it was a great day for me.
“But both things can be true… I didn’t play my best, and Coco stepped up and played with poise and purpose.
“She earned that title. Respect. Time to rest, learn and come back stronger.”
Sabalenka saw off four-time French Open champion Iga Swiatek in a thrilling semi-final.
The Belarusian even claimed has she not beaten her, Gauff would have been the runner-up.
Gauff hit back, responding: “I don’t agree with that.
“No shade to Iga or anything, but last time I played her I won in straight sets.
“I don’t think that’s a fair thing to say, because anything can really happen.”
Sabalenka’s 70 unforced errors was the highest recorded in any women’s singles match at this year’s tournament.
In comparison, Jannik Sinner made 64 and Carlos Alcaraz hit 73 in their five hours and 29 minutes men’s final classic the day after, which went to a fifth set tiebreak.
Gauff and Sabalenka will be back on court for the next Grand Slam, Wimbledon, which start in just three weeks.
Gauff said her rival’s comments were ‘unfair’[/caption]
