World No 1 Aryna Sabalenka posted a social media image of the dress she will wear at the US Open later this month and it drew criticism from some quarters.

The lacy black and red outfit is inspired by America’s passion for basketball, with the lacy overlay inspired by the net used in one of the most popular sports in the US.

Some social media users suggested the outfit was not what they expected to see on a tennis court, but the Belarusian star has hit back at those claims and insisted she has enjoyed the kit she has been given by her sponsors in 2026.

“I really like this year’s Nike outfit because it’s inspired by different sports,” Sabalenka told reporters in Toronto.

“The Australian Open one was linked to surfing, the Roland-Garros one to dance, and Wimbledon to cricket. And finally, for the US Open, basketball is in the spotlight.

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“So I feel like a basketball, it’s really fun. For a long time, they stuck to pretty classic things.

“I encouraged them to create something more fun, different, maybe with a new shape or idea for the dress.

“I’m very excited to continue collaborating with them to create new, fun, and original designs. I love my outfit. If some people don’t like it, that’s okay.

“You can’t please everyone with your clothes. That’s exactly what I love about fashion: there’s room for everyone, for all desires and inspirations.”

Sabalenka has faced some criticism for some of her social media posts, with the revealing nature of some of her posts ensuring they get a big reaction with her Instagram and TikTok audience.

The reigning US Open champion clearly enjoys having fun on social media and it has raised her profile and that of the women’s game in recent years.

Now she is taking her ‘behind the scenes’ access for her fans to the next level, with the release of the latest episode of her ‘Aryna’s Arena’ series on YouTube.

The latest episode focuses on her recent holiday on the Greek island of Mykonos with her partner Georgios Frangulis.

Images of the couple enjoying the sun-kissed beaches and having a break from tennis are certain to be well received by Sabalenka’s army of supporters around the world.

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“I’m having so much fun filming these and wanted to give you guys a look into my life on and off the court … the good, the bad, all of it,” Sabalenka said.

In this episode, she suggests getting away from the sport she has mastered is crucial to allowing her to unwind.

“I feel like I am at peace when I am in the water and swimming,” she said. “Right now you realise life is so much bigger than a tennis tournament. Having fun with your closest people is truly the best.”

Sabalenka may have her critics, but she is determined to live her best life and is happy to let the world see into it.

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