Sabalenka feels ‘fresh’ ahead of China Open after ranking setback

Aryna Sabalenka, the four-time Grand Slam winner from Belarus, expressed feeling "fresh" ahead of her upcoming China Open tournament following a ranking setback. The 28-year-old athlete admitted that her recent struggles on and off the court left her feeling both physically and mentally unhealthy. However, Sabalenka said that her performance at the US Open last month helped her rediscover her love for tennis and brought about a sense of improved well-being.

Now, as she heads into her first tournament since relinquishing the world No. 1 ranking earlier this year, Sabalenka will face off against either Anna Bondar or Renata Zarazua in the round of 64, with both players seeded second behind her. Meanwhile, in the men's draw, Novak Djokovic, the record holder with 24 Grand Slam titles, is aiming to add to his six titles at the China Open.

The Serbian star expressed confidence in his body and overall feeling heading into the competition, where he is scheduled to take on Portugal's Nuno Borges in the opening round.