Aryna Sabalenka addressed the criticism regarding her outfit at the US Open, stating, "Who cares what people think?" Sabalenka, the WTA world No. 1, wore an orange-and-black Nike kit featuring a sheer jersey-style top over a bright orange sports bra and matching shorts during her mixed doubles match with Novak Djokovic on Tuesday.
Speaking to reporters at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, NY, on Friday, Sabalenka expressed her enjoyment of the outfit, saying, "I love it." She explained that the basketball-inspired design is part of Nike's tribute to the tournament, with each Grand Slam outfit reflecting the host country's signature sport.
"This year it was super special for Nike … it was always related to different sports," she noted, referencing previous designs inspired by surfing for the Australian Open, ballet for Roland Garros, and cricket for Wimbledon.
Sabalenka emphasized her appreciation for the uniqueness of her outfit, stating, "I love basically everything about my outfit. I love that it’s different. I love that this outfit is bold. Whatever people are saying on the internet, I heard they probably didn’t like it … it’s funny for me."
She acknowledged that criticism is a constant regardless of her attire, mentioning past backlash over her post-match dancing at the French Open. "When Nike was pretty simple and standard, they were complaining. When Nike went really cool and fun and trying to get back, they always complain," she said.
Sabalenka first showcased the US Open kit on Instagram on July 30, before wearing it on court in a match against Katerina Siniakova and Henry Patten at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The outfit received mixed reactions from fans, with some questioning its appropriateness for a top-ranked player, while others defended it.
Sabalenka is set to begin her US Open title defense on Sunday against Colombia’s Camila Osorio.