Aryna Sabalenka is in for a busy start to the year, beginning with a packed field at the Brisbane International before she heads to Melbourne Park.
The world number one is among seven of the top 10 seeds who have chosen Brisbane as their first tournament of 2024.
Sabalenka will also play doubles while in Queensland, starting her season in pursuit of what would be her fifth Grand Slam title.
She recently shared her thoughts on competing in Australia and spoke about one particular part of the experience she isn’t especially keen on.
Aryna Sabalenka is not a fan of the Australian heat
Sabalenka is in Australia during their summer, but the hot weather is something she doesn’t enjoy.
When asked about playing in Australia, she said: “I definitely don’t like the heat, but the people, yeah.
“I think the atmosphere — it’s always a full crowd (in Brisbane). Everyone really engages a lot with tennis. Also in Melbourne, the support there is incredible.”
While reflecting on last year’s loss to Madison Keys in the Brisbane final, Sabalenka was asked if that result gives her extra drive heading into this season.
She responded: “I’m always super motivated when I come to Australia. Of course remembering last year’s final, I really want to do just a little bit better than I did last year. It’s a tough draw, a lot of great players. It’s a lot of matches before hitting the Australian Open.”
The world number one received an opening-round bye and will face either Cristina Bucsa or a qualifier in her first match.
Sabalenka has had plenty of success in Australia
Sabalenka’s struggles with the heat haven’t done much to slow her down when it comes to results.
She took home the Adelaide International title in 2023, just before winning her first Australian Open trophy, and she found success again in 2025, choosing Brisbane over Adelaide this time and lifting that title as well.
Her strong form continued at Melbourne Park, too. Sabalenka won the Australian Open again in 2024 and reached the final in 2025, with Madison Keys being the only player to beat her there over that three-year span.
She’s also had success on the doubles court, winning the Australian Open title in 2021 alongside long-time partner Elise Mertens.
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