Sabalenka Charmed by Rome: "This Place Is Paradise"
Aryna Sabalenka arrives at the WTA 1000 tournament in Rome full of confidence. Fresh off her Madrid title, where she defeated Coco Gauff in the final, the world No. 1 hopes to secure another victory in the Italian capital, where she fell short in last year’s final against Iga Swiatek.
Speaking at a press conference before her opening match against Anastasia Potapova or Dayana Yastremska, the Belarusian expressed her love for the Rome tournament, which has recently expanded its facilities. The major changes are already visible this year.
"I have to say it’s much more enjoyable to play when you see the stadium full, when you see the setting we’re playing in—the beautiful scenery, the statues around…
You sit down and think, ‘Oh my God, this place is paradise.’ It gives you positive vibes, helps you stay positive on the court, and play your best tennis," Sabalenka told the media recently.
Rome 
