Aryna Sabalenka made a heartbreakingbut also heartfelt comment as the 26-year-old revealed if she could travel back in time, she would use it to get back into her childhood and have more memorable moments with her late father.
ADVERTISEMENT
Just before the Belarusian tennis star's 21st birthday in 2019, her family was struck by major tragedy after her father Sergey died suddenly aged just 43. At the time, there were reports that he was battling meningitis.
Since Sabalenka had a very close bond with her father, she didn't hide that she was absolutely devastated and crushed after his death. Since then, the three-time Grand Slam champion has often remembered her late father after some of her biggest wins and successes.
Now, during an appearance on Tennis Channel, the 26-year-old was asked what to which time she would travel back if it was possible.
If time travel was possible, what time period would you travel to? I would... Ahh, its going to be a bit sad. I would go back to my childhood and I would just have fun with my father, Sabalenka said.
ADVERTISEMENT
Sabalenka had a deal with her dad
After becoming a Grand Slam champion at the 2023 Australian Open, she put up another dominant run at Melbourne Park earlier this year to improve to two Majors just four months before her 26st birthday. Afterward, the world No. 2 became very emotional and she had a reason for it.
"I lost my father four years ago. We had one dream. That before 25, I will win a couple of Grand Slams," Sabalenka said.
Following her latest Slam win at this past US Open, the Belarusian paid another tribute to her late dad.
ADVERTISEMENT
"After I lost my father, it's always been my goal to put our family name in the history of tennis. And every time I see my name on that trophy, I'm so proud of myself, I'm proud of my family that they never gave up on my dream," Sabalenka said in New York.
