Aryna Sabalenka appeared on a popular talk show amid controversy surrounding her comments about transgender people in women's sports.
Aryna Sabalenka appeared on Jimmy Fallon's late-night talk show, The Tonight Show. The 27-year-old Belarusian tennis player's appearance came amid a controversy surrounding her comments regarding the participation of transgender* athletes in women's competitions.
For her outing, Sabalenka chose a black leather trench coat, which she apparently wore next to nothing. She accessorized with chunky earrings, a watch, and stiletto heels. The athlete posted studio and backstage photos (including one with actress Lily Collins) on her Instagram**.
On Tuesday, Sabalenka, who is ranked number one in the WTA world rankings, gave an interview to British journalist Piers Morgan. The conversation was timed to coincide with her upcoming "Battle of the Sexes" match against Australian Nick Kyrgios. At one point, Morgan asked her about her feelings about transgender* people in sports, to which Sabalenka responded that she considers their participation in women's tournaments unfair: "I think they still have a significant advantage. A woman works her whole life to reach her peak, and then she's forced to compete against a man who is biologically stronger. I don't agree with that approach in sports."
Following Arina's statement, she was met with a barrage of criticism and hate online from activists. Furthermore, the tennis player was accused of double standards, recalling her collaboration with Kyrgios, who had previously been accused of domestic violence. However, some supported Sabalenka, thanking her for her honest response: "God, thank God there are still normal people left in this world," and "I can't agree with her position, but I respect her for her candor," wrote people on social media.
In the interview, Sabalenka also touched on the topic of changing citizenship, a recent trend among athletes. She emphasized that she had never considered such a move and has no plans to do so in the future, as she feels a responsibility to Belarusian children and wants to inspire them with her example.
"I've always been proud to represent a small country. I think I inspire the children there. Changing citizenship isn't my path: I don't want to betray those who look up to me and believe in me. I want to represent Belarus so they can see my success at the highest level and understand that they, too, can achieve great things. If I can come from a small corner of the world and rise to the top, then so can they."
Sabalenka has previously been embroiled in controversy. Last March, she was criticized for her reaction to 17-year-old Russian Mirra Andreeva's victory, and in November, for making an unethical statement after losing to Elena Rybakina in the WTA Finals final.
Photo: arynasabalenka/Instagram***The "International LGBT Public Movement" has been declared extremist and banned in the Russian Federation**