Importance Score: 20 / 100 🔵
Sabalenka Celebrates Miami Open Triumph with Tequila
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka jokingly expressed concerns about “becoming an alcoholic” after securing the Miami Open title. Following her victory over Jessica Pegula in the final on Saturday, the tennis star immediately began planning celebratory drinks to mark her 19th career championship win.
Miami Open Victory Follows Near Misses
After experiencing narrow defeats in significant finals earlier this year, including the Australian Open and Indian Wells, the 26-year-old finally achieved victory in Miami. Sabalenka was eager to commemorate this milestone in style, mentioning tequila as her celebratory drink of choice.
Sunshine Double Culminates in Miami Glory
Two weeks after finishing as runner-up at Indian Wells, Sabalenka completed an impressive ‘sunshine double’ run by claiming the coveted Miami trophy. The 2024 Miami Open marked a breakthrough for Sabalenka, who had not previously advanced beyond the quarter-finals at this tournament. This year, she triumphed, defeating Pegula 7-5, 6-2 in the Saturday final.
Celebratory Plans and Post-Victory Relaxation
With a couple of weeks off before the start of the clay court season, Sabalenka intends to unwind and enjoy her success. She revealed her team’s celebration plans, stating, “Today we’re going to relax, but tomorrow I’m going to encourage them to participate in some fun, to have drinks, maybe enjoy burgers or pizza, just to have a good time.”
She added, “I believe we deserve to celebrate because we faced challenges after those difficult finals. We were all feeling somewhat down. This victory deserves a small celebration to cherish this moment.”
Tequila and Trophies: A Champion’s Toast
Sabalenka, a brand ambassador for Dobel Tequila, even enjoyed a margarita live on Tennis Channel after being crowned Miami Open champion. However, she humorously acknowledged the need for moderation during the festivities. “Tequila, definitely. Though unspoken, it was implied,” she remarked, confirming her drink of choice.
“Yes, it’s going to be tequila. As I get older, my celebratory tastes are changing. Previously, I might have opted for sugary treats. Now, it’s alcohol. I hope I don’t develop a drinking problem, but we’ll see,” Sabalenka joked.
Sacrifices for Success and Upcoming Events
“But if I do, it would signify numerous trophies to celebrate. Perhaps that’s a sacrifice I’m willing to make,” she quipped.
Sabalenka is expected to participate next in the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix in Stuttgart, a clay court tournament scheduled to begin on April 14.
Home Sweet Home Victory
For now, the world No. 1 will relish her Miami Open victory with food and drinks. The 26-year-old’s residence in Miami adds extra significance to this latest title win, making it particularly special.