Why is Sabalenka WEAK in Finals?

World No. 1 players are often defined by their dominance in tournament finals. Think of legends like Steffi Graf, Monica Seles, Martina Hingis, Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova, and Iga Swiatek, who all boast impressive and lopsided records in the final stages of major tournaments. Their ability to thrive when the stakes are highest is one of the hallmarks of their greatness. Yet, when it comes to Aryna Sabalenka, something seems to be amiss. Despite her undeniable talent, the 2025 season has exposed a glaring flaw: her performance in finals.

In 2025 alone, Sabalenka has posted a disappointing 4-5 record in finals, and more troubling is the fact that she has lost some of the most significant and high-stakes matches of the year. These include major finals such as the Australian Open, the French Open, and the WTA Finals. Additionally, she has faltered at high-profile 1000-level events like Indian Wells and Stuttgart. After four attempts, Sabalenka still hasn’t managed to win the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix, a title that has eluded her despite being one of the top contenders year after year.

Despite these setbacks, Sabalenka did manage to secure some major victories, including winning the US Open, the Miami Open, and the Madrid Open 1000. These achievements are undoubtedly impressive and speak to her skill and perseverance. However, her overall record in finals has become a growing concern, especially given her position as the World No. 1. It’s hard to ignore the fact that, despite her dominance throughout the year, Sabalenka has consistently faltered when it matters most.

One of the most perplexing aspects of Sabalenka’s struggles in finals is that she has often been defeated by players ranked much lower than her. Her losses to players like Madison Keys, Mirra Andreeva, and Jelena Ostapenko—who, on paper, she should have been able to overcome—have raised serious questions about her ability to perform on the biggest stage. These unexpected losses have cast a shadow over her ranking as World No. 1, as they highlight a persistent weakness that seems to rear its head in the most crucial moments.

Her most recent defeat, a loss to Elena Rybakina in the WTA Finals, further underscored this issue. Rybakina, who had only qualified for the prestigious event at the last moment, managed to outplay Sabalenka in the final, adding another defeat to the Belarusian’s growing list of final losses. While Rybakina’s victory was impressive, it once again highlighted Sabalenka’s difficulty in closing out major matches.

So, what is it that holds Sabalenka back in finals? Is it a lack of mental toughness, or is there something more systemic at play? Experts suggest that Sabalenka’s aggressive playing style, while incredibly effective in many situations, may be part of the problem in high-pressure moments. Her tendency to go for big shots, especially under pressure, can sometimes backfire, leading to unforced errors at crucial points. While this aggressive style can win matches, it can also create moments of vulnerability, especially in tight finals.

Another potential factor is Sabalenka’s mindset in big matches. Tennis, especially at the highest level, is as much a mental game as it is physical. Some players are able to thrive under pressure, using the weight of the occasion to fuel their performance. Others, like Sabalenka, may struggle to manage the psychological toll that comes with being the favorite in a major final. Her inability to close out key matches could be tied to a lack of calm in these high-stakes situations.

The psychological aspect of Sabalenka’s game has often been highlighted as one of her weaknesses. While she has shown tremendous growth in her overall game, especially in her ability to handle nerves and focus, her final match performances suggest that there is still room for improvement in this area. She has admitted in the past that handling pressure is something she continues to work on, and her track record in finals suggests that this is still a challenge for her.

Additionally, Sabalenka’s physical conditioning, while undoubtedly impressive, may not be as sharp in the latter stages of tournaments. In some of her final losses, it appeared that she struggled with stamina or physical fatigue, which may have affected her ability to perform at her best when the match was on the line. The demands of a long season and the mental strain of competing for the top titles can take a toll on any athlete, and Sabalenka may need to adjust her approach to managing her energy levels as the season progresses.

The media and tennis pundits have been quick to question whether Sabalenka can truly be considered the best in the world if she continues to struggle in the finals. Despite her incredible talent and powerful game, her inability to secure wins in crucial finals may prevent her from being regarded as an all-time great. In contrast, players like Iga Swiatek and Serena Williams have been known for their dominance when it comes to securing titles in big moments, and Sabalenka’s recent record pales in comparison to these legends.

It’s also important to consider how Sabalenka herself views these losses. She is undoubtedly a competitor who hates losing, and the frustration of repeatedly falling short in finals must weigh heavily on her. While she has been gracious in defeat, her body language and post-match comments suggest that these losses are taking an emotional toll. This mental burden could play a role in her difficulties, as players who carry emotional scars from past failures often struggle to perform in similar situations in the future.

Moving forward, Sabalenka’s ability to overcome this issue will define the trajectory of her career. If she can find a way to deliver her best when the stakes are highest, there is no doubt she can cement her place as one of the sport’s greats. However, if her struggles in finals continue, it may hold her back from achieving her full potential and claiming more Grand Slam titles.

In conclusion, Sabalenka’s 2025 season has been a mixed bag of highs and lows. While she has shown incredible promise and secured major victories, her record in finals is concerning. As the World No. 1, she will need to address this mental block if she hopes to solidify her legacy in tennis. Her performance in upcoming finals will be closely watched, as fans and critics alike will be eager to see if she can turn her potential into consistent success when it matters most.