Aryna Sabalenka was all smiles off the court on Sunday night after finally clinching a title that had long eluded her: the women’s singles crown at the Indian Wells Open in California.
With a thrilling 3-6, 6-3, 7-6(6) victory over rival Elena Rybakina, and having saved a championship point on the way, the world No. 1 exhaled deeply, then let fans in on how she plans to unwind post-win.
The triumph marked Sabalenka‘s first Indian Wells title and the 10th WTA 1000 crown of her career, finally resolving a frustrating streak at the “fifth major” after two prior finals slips, including a loss to Rybakina in 2023.
Speaking with a grin as she soaked up the moment, the powerful Belarusian hinted that this long-sought victory would be marked by celebration, not strict self-discipline.
“That’s why I’m never in good shape,” Sabalenka laughed when asked how she’d enjoy herself now that the hard work had paid off, revealing plans to indulge without guilt in good food and drinks now that one of the biggest hurdles of her season is behind her.
It was a tone of relief and joy that contrasted sharply with Sabalenka‘s determined focus on the court. Against Rybakina, she rebounded after dropping the first set and dug deep through the decisive tiebreak to secure a win that had eluded her in previous desert finals.
“I want to congratulate Elena. I know we’ll face each other many more times,” Sabalenka said on court after lifting the trophy. “Thanks to everyone who made this tournament possible, it is truly a tennis paradise. I’m always happy to come here every year, and thank God I got this trophy.”
Her victory gives her a narrow edge in the head-to-head with Rybakina and continues a season in which the 27-year-old has been remarkably consistent, including deep runs at other major events and a finals appearance at the Australian Open earlier this year.
Even before Indian Wells, Sabalenka had been candid in media appearances throughout the season, blending her fierce competitiveness with self-aware humor. Earlier this month, she playfully talked about wearing her new engagement ring during matches, hoping its sparkle might distract opponents.
Sabalenka’s past struggles and the significance of this win
The sport’s landscape has shifted in recent years with Serena Williams‘ retirement and the next generation vying for dominance. Sabalenka‘s combination of power and jokes, whether about shiny jewelry or calorie counts after a victory, makes her one of the game’s most intriguing personalities.
Her journey this season alone underscores that narrative. She began 2026 with a strong run at the Brisbane International, added a WTA 500 title, and marched into the Australian Open final, where she was narrowly beaten. Each deep run has added to expectations, and the Indian Wells breakthrough now feels like a defining moment in the campaign.
Off the court, Sabalenka has balanced her life with high-profile moments, including her engagement to entrepreneur Georgios Frangulis. That personal happiness, coupled with a new puppy, only added to her reasons to smile after Sunday’s win.
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