2 Aryna Sabalenka did not participate in a customary post-match press conference after her third-round win at the French Open on Friday, saying she didn’t feel safe when participating in a press conference held earlier this week.
Normally, press conferences by players are required.
Reuters also reported that French Open organizers said that they want to “protect” Sabalenka and that whether she attends other post-match press conferences will be her decision.
CNN has reached out to the French Tennis Federation, the organizers of the French Open, for comment.
In 2021, Naomi Osaka of Japan sparked headlines and debate when she had announced she wouldn’t participate in press conferences during the French Open, citing her mental health.
Persons:
Aryna Sabalenka, “, ” Sabalenka, Sabalenka’s, Roland Garros, Naomi Osaka, ’ Sabalenka, Sabalenka, ”
Organizations:
CNN, Reuters, French Tennis Federation, Roland, –
Locations:
Belarusian, Ukraine, Belarus, Paris, Japan, “