Aryna Sabalenka has expressed her shock at a scheduling decision made during the Miami Open. Rain delays throughout the week have already impacted several top players. Sabalenka, the top-ranked woman, felt the impact on Friday night.
Sabalenka’s Match Moved Amidst Rain Delays
Tournament organisers faced the challenge of rescheduling matches due to rain. This resulted in matches being moved to different courts, including Sabalenka’s. Despite the last-minute venue change, Sabalenka defeated Ann Li in straight sets, 7-6 (5), 6-4.
In the post-match press conference, Sabalenka said she was “really shocked” by the decision. She felt the scheduling favoured the match between Carlos Alcaraz and Joao Fonseca over her own. She also revealed details of the conversation that took place behind the scenes.
Sabalenka said she was shocked they were considering cancelling her match. She said they gave her a couple of options for stadiums. She questioned why Alcaraz and Fonseca could not start later, given that the night session the previous day had started at 9:00 with de Minaur playing.
Fairness Questioned Amidst Scheduling Chaos
Sabalenka decided to play her match so that if she won, she would have a day off. This would give her time to prepare and recharge. She was happy that they gave her options so she could choose what was best for her.
When asked why she was shocked, Sabalenka replied she had never dealt with anything like that before. She thought it wouldn’t be a problem for her to play, and for the night session to wait and start a little later. She guessed that the decision was better for tournament tickets.
Sabalenka empathised with the difficult decision faced by the directors. She acknowledged that it was tricky because Alcaraz was playing. She said it was a case of “two number ones and what they should do”, and that she was happy they had options.
Looking Ahead at the Miami Open
Li’s record for the season now stands at 5-8. Sabalenka’s record improves to 18-1. She will face Caty McNally in the Round of 32.
- Sabalenka defeated Ann Li in straight sets: 7-6 (5), 6-4.
- Sabalenka improved to 18-1 on the season.
- Li falls to 5-8 on the season.
The Miami Open is presented by Itau and runs through March 29.