Tennis World Rocked by Scandal! Aryna Sabalenka, the world’s top-ranked star, faces a two-match suspension and a staggering $150,000 fine as the Tennis Federation launches an investigation into allegations of racially charged remarks directed at Alexandra Eala.
In a stunning development shaking the global tennis community, world-renowned Belarusian tennis star Aryna Sabalenka is facing a potential two-match suspension and a hefty $150,000 fine following allegations of racially charged remarks directed at Filipino rising star Alexandra Eala. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) has officially launched an investigation into the incident, which allegedly occurred after a tense locker room encounter during the recent Madrid Open.
According to initial reports, Sabalenka allegedly made inappropriate and racially insensitive comments toward Eala following their second-round match, where Eala staged a surprising upset over the higher-ranked Belarusian. Eyewitnesses within the player’s lounge claim tensions flared when Sabalenka confronted Eala, allegedly questioning her presence at elite-level tournaments and referencing her ethnicity in a derogatory manner.
The ITF released a brief statement confirming the investigation, noting: “We take these allegations with the utmost seriousness. Our disciplinary committee has begun a thorough review and will ensure a fair and impartial process.” If the allegations are substantiated, Sabalenka could face immediate sanctions, including a two-match ban and a $150,000 penalty for violating the ITF’s code of conduct on player behaviour and anti-discrimination policies.
Sabalenka’s team has denied the accusations, stating in a press release: “Aryna firmly rejects these claims. She maintains that her words were taken out of context and insists that she has always supported diversity and inclusivity in sport.”
On the other hand, Alexandra Eala, a 19-year-old tennis prodigy from the Philippines, has remained largely silent on the matter. Her team issued a cautious statement, saying: “Alexandra is focused on her performance and maintaining professionalism. She trusts the ITF to handle this matter appropriately.”
