**Aryna Sabalenka Defends Her Bling at the French Open Amid Criticism**
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World-class tennis player Aryna Sabalenka has recently responded to criticism regarding her choice of accessories during her matches at the French Open. Known for both her skill on the court and her glamorous style, the Belarusian star donned two stunning necklaces made of diamonds and garnets while triumphing over Spain’s Jessica Bouzas Maneiro in the first round.
At 28 years old, Sabalenka is currently ranked as the world No. 1 and did not hesitate to express her views on the importance of aesthetics in her performance. “Diamonds, I don’t really feel the heaviness, but I can imagine how it looks from the outside. So I feel pretty comfortable. For me, it’s important to look good,” she remarked after her victory. The match concluded with a convincing score of 6-4, 6-2 in favour of Sabalenka.
The tennis icon found her fashion choices under scrutiny when a journalist questioned her about the perceived hypocrisy surrounding her expensive accessories, especially in light of recent requests for increased prize money from the tournament’s organisers. Weeks earlier, Sabalenka and fellow athlete Coco Gauff released a joint statement highlighting a decrease in player revenue from the French Open, which is projected to fall from 15.5% in 2024 to 14.9% by 2026.
In response to the journalist’s query, Sabalenka was firm in her defence. “I don’t really see how it can be possible to cross these two completely different worlds,” she stated, insisting that her effort for increased prize money is not a reflection of her own financial situation. “It’s just fighting for players, lower-ranked players who are really struggling to survive in this tennis world. It has nothing to do with me that I’m fighting for the prize money. Everyone knows that I’m okay,” she added assertively.
Beyond her match performance, Sabalenka’s engagement ring, a striking 12-carat piece, is also a notable part of her on-court ensemble. Wearing it has become customary for the player, as she expressed her hope that its shine might capture the attention of her opponents. “It feels pretty comfy. It feels shiny. I hope that my opponent will get distracted by this diamond and it’s going to benefit me,” she joked at a press conference in March.
The eye-catching necklaces she wore at the French Open were crafted by New York-based jeweller Material Good and together comprise an impressive 200 carats of garnets and 23 carats of diamonds. Sabalenka noted her fondness for pushing boundaries with her fashion, exemplified by her choice to wear black during a sweltering 90-degree day in Paris. She chuckled about her decision to wear only two necklaces instead of three, reasoning that “it would be too much probably.”
Sabalenka’s approach to her look encapsulates her philosophy that confidence translates to performance. “If I feel good, looking-wise, I perform better, and I feel great,” she explained, highlighting her belief that aesthetics can significantly impact athletic success.
As the tournament unfolds, fans and critics alike will be watching how Sabalenka balances her fashion statements with the ongoing discussions about prize money inequities in professional tennis. With her recent performance and outspoken nature, she continues to make a compelling case for both her talent on the court and her commitment to advocating for her fellow players.
In a sport often scrutinised for its financial disparities, Sabalenka’s dual focus on personal style and player welfare will keep her in the limelight for the duration of the French Open and beyond.