Sabalenka ‘Shocked’ by Miami Open Scheduling Decision vs Alcaraz | Serve On SI

Aryna Sabalenka, the world’s top-ranked female tennis player, secured a hard-fought victory over Ann Li at the Miami Open on Friday night, 7-6 (5), 6-4, despite a last-minute court change that left her “really shocked.” The match was moved as tournament organizers navigated a schedule disrupted by persistent rain throughout the week.

The unexpected shift in venue occurred after a discussion regarding prioritizing matches, specifically between Sabalenka and Li versus Carlos Alcaraz and Joao Fonseca. Sabalenka expressed her surprise during a post-match press conference, detailing her conversation with tournament officials. “I was actually like really shocked that they were considering cancelling my match, or they were like giving me a couple options of the stadiums,” she said. “I was like, ‘But what’s the problem for Alcaraz and Fonseca start later?’ Because yesterday the night session start at 9:00 and de Minaur was playing.”

Sabalenka questioned the rationale behind potentially delaying her match, suggesting a later start time for the men’s contest would have been a viable solution. “So, I was actually like really shocked the idea of like even cancelling my match,” she continued. “But I just decided to play today just so, if I win, I have a day off, and I have time to prepare to recharge and everything. But yeah, I was actually shocked to be honest. But I’m happy that they gave me options so I could choose what’s best for me.”

The Belarusian player acknowledged the difficulty of the decision for tournament directors, particularly given the presence of two top players in Alcaraz and herself. “I indicate, it’s tricky because Alcaras was playing, so it’s kind of like you know two number ones and what they should do. I’m just happy that they had options,” she stated.

Ann Li, currently ranked No. 39 in the world, saw her season record fall to 5-8 with the loss. Sabalenka, meanwhile, improved her record to 18-1 and will next face Caty McNally in the Round of 32. The Miami Open presented by Itau is scheduled to continue through March 29.