Aryna Sabalenka, one of tennis’s brightest stars, has had an incredible journey to the top of the WTA rankings. Known for her explosive power and fearless play, she achieved a career-defining milestone in 2023, becoming the World No.1 and capturing her first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open. Behind her meteoric rise lies a story of critical decisions, including a moment when she almost enlisted a former World No.1 as her coach before settling on Anton Dubrov.
A Crucial Crossroads in Coaching
In professional tennis, choosing the right coach is often a make-or-break decision. For Sabalenka, the 2021 season brought frustrations, particularly with inconsistent performances in high-pressure moments. These struggles prompted her to reassess her coaching setup. During this period, Sabalenka explored several options to find the guidance she needed to elevate her game.
Among the names floated was a former World No.1, whose reputation as a mentor for elite players had garnered widespread respect. The idea of bringing in such a seasoned figure to refine her mental and tactical approach seemed appealing. However, after a series of discussions and evaluations, Sabalenka ultimately decided against this high-profile choice, opting instead for a more familiar face: Anton Dubrov.
Why Dubrov Was the Chosen One
Anton Dubrov wasn’t a new name in Sabalenka’s camp. He had been part of her support team as a hitting partner and analyst, deeply familiar with her game and personality. While not as decorated or experienced as the former World No.1, Dubrov offered a unique advantage—an intimate understanding of Sabalenka’s strengths, weaknesses, and tendencies.
Sabalenka’s decision to hire Dubrov raised eyebrows at the time. Critics questioned whether a relatively unproven coach could guide her to Grand Slam glory. However, Sabalenka trusted her instincts and believed Dubrov’s tailored approach would be more impactful than a generic strategy from a celebrated veteran coach.
Sabalenka’s Evolution Under Dubrov
Since partnering with Dubrov, Sabalenka has demonstrated remarkable growth, particularly in her mental resilience. Her newfound ability to stay composed during crucial moments was evident in her Australian Open triumph, where she overcame setbacks to claim her maiden Grand Slam title.
Dubrov’s approach has been holistic. He has worked on sharpening Sabalenka’s aggressive baseline game while ensuring her mental toughness matches her physical prowess. The duo’s collaboration paid off as Sabalenka became one of the most consistent players on tour, reaching multiple finals and ascending to the No.1 ranking.
The ‘What-Ifs’ of Tennis Coaching
Reflecting on her decision to forgo the former World No.1 as her coach, Sabalenka has expressed no regrets. While the allure of working with a legendary figure was tempting, she emphasized the importance of finding a coach who understands her unique needs. In her words, it wasn’t about hiring a famous name but about building a relationship based on trust, understanding, and mutual goals.
The “what-if” scenario—what could have happened if Sabalenka had chosen differently—remains an intriguing point for fans. Would the former World No.1 have brought an added edge to her game? Or would a misalignment in approach have hindered her growth? These questions will remain speculative, but the results under Dubrov speak volumes about the wisdom of her choice.
A Broader Trend in Tennis
Sabalenka’s coaching decision reflects a broader trend in tennis, where players increasingly prioritize personal rapport over big names. This shift is evident across the ATP and WTA tours, as athletes opt for coaches who can provide individualized attention rather than relying on marquee reputations.
For Sabalenka, Dubrov’s tailored strategies have proven invaluable, enabling her to navigate challenges and sustain her position as one of the sport’s most formidable players. Her story underscores the idea that success in tennis isn’t solely about technical expertise—it’s about chemistry, trust, and a shared vision for growth.
What Lies Ahead
As Sabalenka continues her journey, her partnership with Dubrov will undoubtedly face more tests. With rivals like Iga Swiatek, Coco Gauff, and Elena Rybakina vying for supremacy, maintaining her position at the top of women’s tennis will require constant adaptation. However, the bond she shares with Dubrov gives her a strong foundation to face these challenges.
In hindsight, Sabalenka’s choice not to turn to the former World No.1 as her coach might have been the best decision for her career. By trusting Dubrov, she has not only elevated her game but also solidified her reputation as a player who thrives under tailored guidance.
Conclusion
Aryna Sabalenka’s near decision to hire a former World No.1 as her coach before settling on Anton Dubrov adds another fascinating chapter to her career. It highlights the complex dynamics of player-coach relationships and the importance of choosing the right guidance at pivotal moments. With Dubrov by her side, Sabalenka has reached incredible heights, proving that sometimes the best choices are those rooted in familiarity and trust rather than prestige.
As Sabalenka continues to dominate on the court, her story serves as a testament to the power of intuition and the value of making bold, unconventional decisions in the pursuit of greatness.
