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Aryna Sabalenka has stormed into the semi-finals at Wimbledon 2025, battling through a gritty three-set clash against Germany’s Laura Siegemund on Centre Court. The world No. 1 seed rallied from a set down to win 4-6, 6-2, 6-4 in a match that lasted nearly three hours, showcasing the resilience and mental strength that has become her signature this season.
But behind Sabalenka’s powerful baseline play and fierce determination lies a recent moment of mentorship — from none other than tennis legend Novak Djokovic.
Aryna Sabalenka credits Novak Djokovic’s mental advice
Ahead of her Wimbledon campaign, Sabalenka had a training session with Djokovic in London that extended well beyond the usual practice time. While the details of their post-practice chat weren’t officially disclosed, Sabalenka hinted that the conversation with the 24-time Grand Slam champion was largely “mental.”
Tennis great Tracy Austin, who has been closely following Aryna Sabalenka’s progression, shared her insights during a BBC broadcast.
“I also think when she practiced with Novak and they stayed on the court for an extra half an hour and Novak talked to Aryna, they won’t tell us exactly what was said, but she said most of it was mental. I think Novak is telling her you have got to stay more calm. Keep that energy!”
Novak Djokovic, known for his ironclad mental focus and ability to thrive under pressure, seems to have passed on valuable wisdom that Sabalenka is now putting into action.
From Roland Garros heartbreak to Wimbledon comeback
Aryna Sabalenka's newfound poise comes just weeks after a stinging semi-final loss at Roland Garros, where she fell to Coco Gauff in blustery conditions. According to Austin, that match served as a turning point.
“I think Sabalenka learned a lot from that Roland Garros final where she really was rattled,” Austin noted. “It was so windy, she did not handle the breezy conditions as well as Coco did.”
Now, on the pristine grass courts of Wimbledon, Sabalenka is channeling that painful experience — and Novak Djokovic’s guidance — to push her game and mental fortitude to new heights.
Booking a spot in history
With her latest win, Aryna Sabalenka not only secured a place in the Wimbledon semi-finals but also became the first player to officially qualify for the 2025 WTA Finals in Riyadh. It’s yet another milestone in a season where she has consistently asserted herself as the player to beat.
The Belarusian star thanked the crowd after her hard-fought victory and is now eyeing a place in her first Wimbledon final. If she continues to harness the composure Novak Djokovic instilled in her, she might just go all the way.
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