Concerns about Aryna Sabalenka’s prospects in winning future Grand Slam titles have surfaced after her first slamless season since 2022. Caitlin Thompson, co-host of The Rennae Stubbs Tennis Podcast, stated that the former world No. 1 is experiencing a “decline” as her WTA rivals begin to adapt to her playing style.
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Thompson indicated that Sabalenka's repeated “capitulation” in critical matches suggests that she may not expand her collection of four major titles without making significant changes. During the podcast, she remarked, “I don’t think Sabalenka is going to get any more. I think she’s in decline. I think everyone else has sort of figured her out, so she’s revealed that she’s very vulnerable in tough moments.” In contrast, Thompson highlighted Coco Gauff's competitive spirit, noting that while Gauff may not win every match or reach every final, she consistently fights hard.
Renowned coach Serena Williams’ former coach, Stubbs, expressed surprise at Thompson's assessment, believing Sabalenka still has the potential to increase her slam count. Despite Sabalenka reaching six major finals in the past two years and being one set away from winning the US Open this year, Thompson argued that her mental challenges have intensified.
She pointed to Sabalenka's defeat to Jessica Pegula in Berlin in June as emblematic of her mental struggles, where she lost the final set 6-0, despite defeating Pegula in their later encounter in the US Open semi-finals. Thompson commented on the significance of Sabalenka’s performance in that match, stating,