Aryna Sabalenka drops numerous F-Bombs in hilarious Indian Wells press exchange

In a self-described “Barbie” moment, the former No. 1 attempted to explain an audible obscenity warning she received against Emma Raducanu…with more obscenities.



Press Conference: A Sabalenka; Indian Wells 3R8:19

INDIAN WELLS, Calif.—Aryna Sabalenka was able to find humor in her frustration after a straight-set win over Emma Raducanu at the BNP Paribas Open on Monday, explaining an audible obscenity as only the two-time Australian Open champion would: with more obscenities!

Asked about a post-match conversation she had with chair umpire Cecilia Alberti, Sabalenka confirmed it was about the code violation she received in the second set.

“I just told her, like, ‘Come on, you could just avoid that warning. It wasn't that bad.’ Yes, there was, like, one specific word, but it wasn't, like, I didn't forward it to her.

“I was just, like you're pissed and you're just, ‘Fuck this shit,’ she added with a laugh. “I was just, like, ‘Come on. You could have, like, ignored that.’”

INDIAN WELLS, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 11:  Aryna Sabalenka warms up before playing against Emma Raducanu of Great Britain in the third round on Day 9 of the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells Tennis Garden on March 11, 2024 in Indian Wells, California (Photo by Robert Prange/Getty Images)
© 2024 Robert Prange

Amid chuckles from the journalists in her press conference, Sabalenka continued in a stage whisper:

“Did I really say that, ‘Fuck this shit?’ I did it again. Well, ‘Fuck this shit!’ Oh, my God. I mean, someone has to be stupid. I take this role. I'm a Barbie.”

Given that the 2023 Barbie film was only PG-13, it’s doubtful Margot Robbie’s eponymous character shares Sabalenka’s colorful vocabulary—though she may covet the former No. 1’s pink Nike gear.

Will Sabalenka's form be "Kenough" to capture the Baccarat Trophy?