Exclusive: Aryna Sabalenka says No. 1 ranking 'not priority' and reveals 'different approach' after Grand Slam win

Aryna Sabalenka says the focus remains on titles not rankings despite getting nearer to world No. 1 Iga Swiatek. The Belarusian has enjoyed a stellar start to 2023 after winning her first Grand Slam at the Australian Open and currently holds four more victories than any other player on the WTA Tour.

Ad She also admits that victory in Melbourne has changed her mentality going into Grand Slams, giving her more «freedom». WTA Rome‘I'm not focusing on that’ – Sabalenka dismisses Serena comparisons7 HOURS AGO Sabalenka emerged victorious over Swiatek at the recent Madrid Open, after being on the end of a defeat to the Pole in Stuttgart. Speaking to Eurosport's Alize Lim, Sabalenka said: “I always wanted to win as many titles as possible during my career.

«So, if I keep thinking that way and focusing on myself then there's always going to be a chance to become No. 1. “It's not my priority goal, but this is something I really want to see happen in the future.

“It's a different approach right now, before I was thinking like 'come on, you need to get at least one Grand Slam in your career.' “But right now, I have this Grand Slam and can play with more freedom, you don't think about being a top player without a Grand Slam. “You just think about your game and wanting to bring your best game every time you're out on court. It's a different approach right now.” With 0-3 Rome record, Medvedev hopes sliding improvement will bring first win Pegula counsels Raducanu ahead of rehab battle — 'Embrace the suckiness' There is hope that Sabalenka and current world No.