Aryna Sabalenka, the world number two, walked out of her post-match press conference at Roland Garros on Thursday, adding a dramatic turn to an escalating dispute between players and tournament organisers over scheduling and media obligations.
The Belarusian, who had just defeated Kamilla Rakhimova 6-2, 6-3 to reach the third round, entered the media room visibly agitated and made a brief statement before exiting. “I am not comfortable. I do not feel safe. I am leaving,” she said, drawing gasps from journalists.
Sources close to the player indicated the walkout was a premeditated act of solidarity with fellow competitors who have been lobbying for changes to the tournament’s strict media protocols. Several top players, including Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff, have voiced frustration over late-night match finishes and mandatory press conferences that extend into the early hours.
Sabalenka’s protest came hours after an emergency meeting between the WTA, the French Tennis Federation, and player representatives failed to reach a resolution. The players are demanding a cap on post-match media sessions and greater flexibility for those competing in doubles or mixed doubles.
Tournament director Amelie Mauresmo, speaking at a separate briefing, expressed regret over the incident but defended the Grand Slam’s regulations. “We are listening to the players, but we also have a duty to the media and the fans. These rules have been in place for decades,” she said.
Sabalenka later issued a statement through her agent, confirming her actions were intentional. “I love this tournament, but enough is enough. The players deserve respect for their time and their wellbeing. I will not be silenced,” it read.
The walkout is the most public show of defiance yet in a simmering conflict that analysts say threatens the traditional power balance between players and Grand Slam organisers. With the tournament still in its first week, and high-profile matches scheduled nightly, the standoff shows little sign of abating.
Sabalenka faces the risk of a fine for abandoning her media duties. The WTA has yet to comment on any potential sanction.
For now, the locker room at Roland Garros remains a site of quiet rebellion. The message from the players is clear: they are no longer willing to play by the old rules.
