Aryna Sabalenka’s victory in the US Open final was a win not just of tennis shots, but of presence. Her intimidating aura, the “fear factor” she brings to the court, loomed large in her 6-3, 7-6 (3) victory over Amanda Anisimova, contributing to the pressure that eventually cracked her opponent.
From the moment she steps on court, Sabalenka projects an image of overwhelming power and unbreakable focus. Her ferocious hitting and intense demeanor create a psychological challenge for her opponents before the first ball is even struck. They know they have to play at their absolute peak and cannot afford any lapses.
This pressure was evident in Anisimova’s performance. While she has the power to match Sabalenka, the need to maintain that level without error against such a formidable presence proved to be too much. The fear of Sabalenka’s punishing response to any short ball or weak serve likely contributed to some of Anisimova’s mistakes.
Sabalenka has cultivated this fear factor to become one of her most potent weapons. It is the invisible force that complements her physical game, making her not just a difficult opponent to play, but an intimidating one to face.