Aryna Sabalenka fires back at critics of her US Open outfit: ‘Who cares what people think?’
The reaction was more amusing than upsetting for the Belarusian star
A ryna Sabalenka's US Open wardrobe has generated almost as much conversation as her tennis this week, but the world's top-ranked player made it clear that public opinion is not going to influence her fashion choices. After some fans on social media criticized the outfit she wore during her mixed doubles appearance at Flushing Meadows, Sabalenka responded with a message that reflected the confidence that has helped her become one of the sport's dominant players.
“Who cares what people think?” Sabalenka said during Friday's media day. “I love it.” The comments came after the Belarusian star drew attention for a black mesh Nike dress that revealed an electric orange sports bra and matching briefs underneath. The outfit became a topic of debate online, with some fans praising its boldness.
The reaction was more amusing than upsetting, according to Sabalenka. “I love basically everything about my outfit,” she said. “I love that it’s different. I love that this outfit is bold. Whatever people saying on internet, I heard they probably didn’t like it … it’s funny for me.”
A tennis Star Embracing a Different Kind of Spotlight
Professional tennis has long balanced tradition with innovation, and player fashion has often become part of that conversation. From Serena Williams' iconic outfits to Andre Agassi's colorful looks in the 1990s, some of the sport's biggest stars have used apparel to express personality as much as performance.
Sabalenka's latest look appears to fit into that category. Rather than viewing the outfit as a controversial choice, she sees it as part of a larger creative concept that Nike has developed throughout the Grand Slam season. According to the tennis star, each major tournament this year has featured a different theme.
“Surfing for the Australian Open, ballet for Roland Garros, cricket for Wimbledon, ” she explained. “Now it’s basketball and we’re in New York . Isn’t it the perfect fit?” The basketball inspiration is particularly fitting given New York City's deep connection to the sport. While tennis remains the focus at the US Open, Sabalenka embraced a design that attempted to capture some of the city's broader sporting culture.
Criticism comes with every outfit
One of the more interesting parts of Sabalenka's response was her suggestion that criticism is unavoidable regardless of what athletes wear.
She argued that fans complained when Nike produced safer, more traditional designs and are now complaining again when the company pushes creative boundaries.
“When Nike was pretty simple and standard, they were complaining,” she said. “When Nike went really cool and fun and trying to get back, they always complain.”
Her comments highlight a reality faced by many modern athletes. Social media has created an environment where every aspect of a player's appearance, performance and personality can become a topic of instant public discussion.
