Aryna Sabalenka powered her way into the French Open quarterfinals with a commanding 7-5, 6-3 victory over Naomi Osaka on Monday, but the buzz after the match wasn't just about her tennis. It was about a post-match interview that left many scratching their heads.
During the on-court chat with former player-turned-presenter Fabrice Santoro, the world No. 1 was asked to dance to Michael Jackson's 'Thriller.' Sabalenka, ever the good sport, obliged with a few moves, but the request didn't sit well with everyone watching.
Former U.S. Open champion Andy Roddick was among those who called out the moment. 'I like him (Santoro), but saying, 'Will you dance for us?' is just such a weird thing to ask. I don't like it,' Roddick said, via the New York Post. 'And then when she does it a little bit and it's kind of over, to then ask her to moonwalk … I don't know. Maybe people loved it, and I might be in the minority.'
Roddick argued that the interview should have focused on Sabalenka's performance, not turned into an entertainment segment. 'Personally, I understand the personality side of these post-match interviews … but it's just such a lose-lose situation. Props to her for doing it, but I just thought it was weird. I think that's such a strange thing to ask somebody to do in a professional setting,' he added.
The incident has sparked debate about the line between lighthearted fun and professionalism in sports interviews. While some fans enjoyed the moment, others felt it undermined Sabalenka's dominance on court. The Belarusian star was in top form, hitting 39 winners and winning 83% of points on her first serve against a resilient Osaka.
Sabalenka, who is chasing her fifth Grand Slam title, remained unfazed by the controversy. 'I'm not really overthinking, I was able to separate myself from what's going on this year at Roland Garros. I have been around. Anything can happen. That's tennis. That's sport, you know?' she said after the match. 'I'm just trying once again to be focused on myself and make sure that when I'm there competing I'm bringing my best level that I have, and I'm there, I'm fighting, and I'm doing everything I can to get this trophy.'
Sabalenka's focus is now on avenging last year's heartbreaking loss to Coco Gauff in the final. That defeat still stings, and she's determined to go one step further this time. Her next opponent is Diana Shnaider, with a potential semifinal clash against Anna Kalinskaya or Maja Chwalinska looming.
The pressure is on, but Sabalenka seems to thrive under it. Meanwhile, the tennis world continues to debate Santoro's interview style, with many calling for more respect toward athletes' achievements. As Roddick pointed out, it's a reminder that post-match moments should celebrate the sport, not turn into a sideshow.
For more on the drama at Roland Garros, check out the controversy surrounding Frances Tiafoe's outburst and the playful moment with Mirra Andreeva that also turned heads this week.
