Sabalenka loses her cool, then says sorry and blames spectators for the Indian Wells row

Los Angeles, Nov 15 — After a heated on-court exchange, former world number one Aryna Sabalenka issued an apology on Saturday for her outburst during her loss to Ukrainian opponent Elina Svitolina at the WTA Finals in Indian Wells. Clips of the incident went viral on social media, with some observers believing Sabalenka directed her anger at Svitolina or Ukrainians more broadly.

Sabalenka clarified on Instagram that her outburst was aimed at a small group of unruly spectators who were cheering her errors. She expressed regret for her reaction and apologized to anyone she may have offended. However, she insisted she should have managed her frustration more appropriately. Meanwhile, Svitolina acknowledged that a match against Sabalenka holds extra significance for her supporters, given the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

She noted that she has received hostile comments regarding the war during their previous encounters. The Ukrainian player, who clinched the Finals title match against Linda Noskova on Saturday, expressed hope for respectful conduct during their future clashes.