Aryna Sabalenka Struggles on Clay and Grass, Faces Pressure Ahead of US Open

Aryna Sabalenka's 2026 season has taken a sharp turn after a dominant start. The World No. 1 won three titles on hardcourts but has failed to reach a final on clay or grass, sparking concerns ahead of the North American swing.

What Happened on Clay and Grass?

Sabalenka's struggles began after her Miami Open victory. She lost in the semifinals of the Berlin Tennis Open, squandering a lead against Jessica Pegula. Earlier, she blew a commanding advantage against Diana Shnaider in the French Open quarterfinals.

The pattern continued in Rome and Madrid. Sabalenka lost after holding match points against Hailey Baptiste and Sorana Cîrstea. Her Wimbledon campaign ended in the fourth round, where Naomi Osaka outplayed her.

Why It Matters for Sabalenka

Rennae Stubbs, a former doubles No. 1, believes Sabalenka isn't panicking yet. However, she raised alarms over Sabalenka's Grand Slam drought. The Belarusian hasn't won a Major since the 2025 US Open, despite reaching eight finals.

Stubbs noted Sabalenka's pressure to perform at the US Open. She leads the rankings by 407 points, but Elena Rybakina is breathing down her neck. Sabalenka's recent losses have raised questions about her mental resilience.

What Comes Next for Sabalenka?

Sabalenka will look to rediscover her form on hardcourts. She's the favorite for the North American swing, including the WTA 1000 tournaments in Toronto and Cincinnati.

Stubbs believes Sabalenka's upcoming trip to Greece could help her reinvent her game. The World No. 1 will face immense pressure to end her Grand Slam drought and maintain her ranking.

Sabalenka's performance in the coming months will determine her legacy. With Rybakina closing in, she needs to find her best form quickly.