Aryna Sabalenka didn't directly confirm nor deny that this year's Australian Open final loss was the toughest of her career but she did acknowledge that she had a hard time accepting it and needed some time to process it.
After completing back-to-back triumphant runs at Melbourne Park in 2023 and 2024, the world No. 1 was in the midst of another big run and she appeared to be destined to pull off a historic three-peat.
But then, her plans were hit with a cold shower after Madison Keys won a thriller final 6-3 2-6 7-5.
Moments after the final ended, Sabalenka angrily smashed her racket - put a towel over her head - and left the court before the trophy ceremony.
Since then, she has appeared in two tournaments and went only 1-2 across Doha and Dubai.
Sabalenka asked if the Australian Open final loss to Keys was the toughest loss that she experienced
"I had some tough losses in the past, but that one was tough to accept, to be honest. It took me, like, a week and maybe a little bit longer than that to stop thinking and to finally move on," the three-time Grand Slam champion explained.
"I'd say that lesson learned and it's in the past. It's always -- not always actually, but it's good to have these tough losses because next time you're going to do much better."
As mentioned above, Sabalenka picked up two very early exits at the recent WTA 1000 tournaments in Doha and Dubai.
But she insists she remains motivated and keen on getting back to winning ways in Indian Wells.
"Oh, yeah, absolutely, yes. This kind of disappointing losses always motivate me to keep working hard. And yeah, that was a tough one, but I think it's behind me," the 26-year-old said.
"Now I'm ready to get that revenge back if I'll have a chance (smiling)."
In Indian Wells, Sabalenka has a first-round bye and will meet McCartney Kessler or Anna Blinkova in the second round.
The Belarusian was the closest to winning it all in the desert in 2023, when she finished as runner-up to Elena Rybakina in the final.
