Aryna Sabalenka: The Human Machine in Tennis

Aryna Sabalenka, the world number one, has demonstrated an unparalleled consistency in Grand Slam tournaments, making 12 semi-final appearances in her last 13 majors. Her powerful style translates seamlessly across court surfaces, yet her tendency to falter at critical moments has seen only three of these appearances culminate in titles.

Emotional Challenges on the Court

Sabalenka's emotional volatility has been a significant factor in her inability to clinch more titles. Despite her machine-like precision, she admits to losing control mentally and emotionally during crucial matches. This was evident in her defeats at the Australian Open, French Open, and Wimbledon this year.

The Role of Max Mirnyi

In a bid to overcome these challenges, Sabalenka has enlisted the help of Max Mirnyi, a 10-time doubles Grand Slam champion. Mirnyi emphasizes the importance of emotional control and experience, stating, "As she gets older, she gets more experienced, she will advance more and more in that department."

Preparing for the US Open Semi-Finals

Sabalenka's preparation for her US Open semi-final against Jessica Pegula has been meticulous. Despite receiving a walkover in the quarter-finals due to Marketa Vondrousova's injury, Sabalenka and her team have been relentless in their practice sessions to maintain her rhythm and focus.

The Tie-Break Specialist

One area where Sabalenka has remained composed is in tie-break situations. She has won her past 17 tie-breaks, including two in New York to reach the semi-finals without dropping a set. This mental fortitude could be crucial in her upcoming match against Pegula.

The Road Ahead

If Sabalenka can overcome her emotional hurdles and maintain her consistency, she stands a strong chance of defending her US Open title. However, the path is fraught with challenges, and only time will tell if she can translate her machine-like consistency into another Grand Slam victory.