Aryna Sabalenka’s Vision Beyond Tennis: From Boxing Ring to Plus-Size Modeling
Aryna Sabalenka, the current world No. 1 in women’s tennis, recently shared in an Esquire interview that if she weren’t a professional tennis player, she would pursue either boxing or plus-size modeling. This candid revelation offers insight into the multifaceted identity of one of tennis’s most fierce competitors, revealing her desire to channel aggression and confidence into alternative arenas.
The Aggressive Athlete’s Alternative Paths
Sabalenka explained that she feels most balanced when engaging in activities that allow her to express aggression, stating she would “definitely be a boxer” or operate as a plus-size model because she enjoys being in environments where she can be assertive. She emphasized that on the tennis court, she needs to be “aggressive enough, emotional enough” to perform at her best, and these traits align closely with the mindset required in boxing or the confidence demanded in modeling.
Her comments reflect a growing trend among elite athletes who explore identities beyond their primary sport, particularly in creative or physically demanding fields that complement their competitive nature. Sabalenka’s interest in plus-size modeling also touches on broader conversations about body positivity and representation in fashion, areas where athletes are increasingly influential.
Channeling Aggression Through Discipline and Heritage
The Belarusian star traces her fighting spirit to her father, Sergei, a former professional ice hockey player who represented Belarus. She credits him with teaching her resilience: “He taught me that no matter what happens, stay strong, be positive, and enjoy life.” Sabalenka has openly discussed how her father’s sudden passing in 2019 due to meningitis motivated her to push harder in tennis, turning grief into fuel for her success.
She described her coping mechanism after his loss: “I cried, but I was able to get on the court and train.” This approach—balancing emotional processing with disciplined action—mirrors strategies used by athletes across sports to manage pressure and maintain performance during personal challenges.
From Grief to Grand Slam Glory: Sabalenka’s Resilient Journey
Despite personal hardships, Sabalenka’s career has continued to ascend. In September 2024, she won her second consecutive US Open title, defeating Amanda Anisimova in straight sets, securing her fourth Grand Slam trophy overall. This victory solidified her status as one of the dominant forces in modern tennis.
Following her on-court success, Sabalenka made headlines in March 2025 when she announced her engagement to entrepreneur Georgios Frangulis, showcasing a diamond-studded ring to her followers. Her ability to balance intense professional demands with meaningful personal milestones reflects a holistic approach to longevity in elite sports.
The Evolution of Athlete Identity in Modern Sports
Sabalenka’s openness about exploring careers in boxing or modeling highlights a shift in how top athletes view their post-competitive futures. Rather than seeing retirement as an endpoint, many now plan transitional careers that leverage their public platforms, discipline, and personal passions.
Her interest in boxing aligns with a rising number of tennis players incorporating combat sports training into their routines for mental toughness and hand-eye coordination. Similarly, her nod to plus-size modeling resonates with athletes like Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka, who have used their influence to challenge traditional beauty standards in fashion.
Did you know?
Aryna Sabalenka is one of only a handful of active WTA players to have won multiple Grand Slam titles on hard courts, with victories at the Australian Open (2021, 2022) and the US Open (2023, 2024).
Pro tip: Building a Legacy Beyond the Baseline
For athletes aiming to extend their influence beyond competition, identifying core traits—such as Sabalenka’s aggression and resilience—and finding ways to apply them in new contexts can ease transitions and sustain purpose after retiring from sport.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Aryna Sabalenka say she would do if she weren’t a tennis player?
Sabalenka stated she would pursue boxing or plus-size modeling, explaining that both paths allow her to express aggression and confidence in meaningful ways.
How has Sabalenka’s father influenced her career?
She credits her late father, Sergei, a former professional ice hockey player, with teaching her to stay strong, remain positive, and enjoy life—lessons she says guide her both on and off the court.
What major titles has Aryna Sabalenka won recently?
In September 2024, she won her second consecutive US Open title, defeating Amanda Anisimova in straight sets, marking her fourth Grand Slam victory overall.
Is Aryna Sabalenka engaged?
Yes, she announced her engagement to entrepreneur Georgios Frangulis in March 2025 and shared photos of her diamond-studded engagement ring with her followers.
Explore More
Interested in how elite athletes transition into new careers after sports? Read our feature on life after professional sports or discover how tennis players are reshaping fashion and beauty standards in Athletes in Fashion.
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