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Aryna Sabalenka: I win because I’m different from Iga grywi Stek. I will always have an upper hand because…
**Aryna Sabalenka: “I Win Because I’m Different From Iga Świątek”**
In the world of tennis, competition between top players is fierce, and the rivalry between Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Świątek has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike. Recently, Sabalenka, the powerful Belarusian who is known for her explosive game, shared her thoughts on why she believes she has an advantage over the Polish world number one.
“I win because I’m different from Iga Świątek,” Sabalenka confidently stated. In an era where comparisons between players are inevitable, Sabalenka’s remarks shed light on her unique approach to the game, her self-awareness, and how she leverages her individual strengths to outplay her rivals.
### The Contrast in Playing Styles
One of the key reasons Sabalenka feels she has an edge over Świątek is the contrasting styles of play that define each athlete’s game. While Świątek is known for her consistency, mental toughness, and a game built around controlled aggression, Sabalenka’s style is built around raw power and unpredictability.
Sabalenka’s aggressive baseline game, especially her serve and forehand, gives her a distinct advantage in fast-paced situations. She hits with immense force, frequently dictating the rallies from the very first strike. “I have a more aggressive game. I try to take the ball early, to be more dynamic,” she said in a previous interview. Her ability to hit through opponents with pace, combined with her sometimes unorthodox shot-making, allows her to dominate matches and break opponents’ rhythm.
Świątek, on the other hand, relies on a more balanced approach, using her exceptional movement, variety, and mental fortitude to break down opponents over time. While this has earned her consistent success on the WTA tour, Sabalenka’s hard-hitting style often forces her into more dynamic, unpredictable situations—something that can be more challenging for a player like Świątek to control.
### The Mental Edge
Beyond their playing styles, Sabalenka’s confidence in her approach suggests that she believes her mindset gives her an upper hand. Known for her fiery personality on court, Sabalenka has been open about the mental hurdles she has faced throughout her career. However, she’s also been candid about how she has learned to embrace her emotions and use them as a driving force rather than a disadvantage.
“I’m not afraid to lose anymore. I just go out there, hit the ball, and if I make a mistake, I move on,” Sabalenka explained in a recent interview. This shift in mentality has propelled her to her first Grand Slam singles title at the 2023 Australian Open, showing that when Sabalenka is at her best, she is not just a powerhouse physically, but mentally tough as well.
Her unapologetic and bold attitude, paired with her physical gifts, gives her a different edge over Świątek, who tends to approach the game with a more measured and methodical approach. This contrast in mentality is something Sabalenka feels gives her a winning edge, especially in high-pressure moments where physicality and mental resolve often decide matches.
### The Power of Being Different
For Sabalenka, embracing what sets her apart from Świątek and other top players is a key element of her success. She does not shy away from being herself, even if that means taking risks or making unforced errors. This willingness to embrace the unpredictable nature of her game is, according to Sabalenka, a huge advantage.
“I will always have an upper hand because I’m not afraid to take risks. I hit the ball hard, and I believe in my game,” she stated. Unlike some players who may second-guess themselves or play it safe, Sabalenka’s approach allows her to break free from conventional norms and disrupt her opponents’ rhythm. Her aggressive mindset means she is often the one dictating play, forcing opponents to react to her strengths rather than vice versa.
### The Future of the Rivalry
While their rivalry is still in its early stages, the clash between Sabalenka’s raw power and Świątek’s consistency promises to be one of the defining matchups in women’s tennis for years to come. Both players are still in the prime of their careers, and as they continue to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how their contrasting styles shape the future of the sport.
Sabalenka’s statement that she wins because she is “different” from Świątek is not just a reflection of her playing style, but a broader declaration of her self-belief and confidence. In tennis, where mental and physical strength are equally important, the ability to understand and embrace one’s own game is often what separates the best from the rest. For Sabalenka, it seems that her confidence in her individuality and willingness to be different will continue to fuel her rise as one of the sport’s most dominant forces.
As both players continue their rivalry, one thing is certain: the WTA’s top ranks will be shaped by their contrasting approaches and unwavering determination to succeed.