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Aryna Sabalenka was right to stand up for herself after 'slightly antagonistic' US Open press conference question, says Johanna Konta React to this story Johanna Konta has defended Aryna Sabalenka after she hit out at a reporter for his line of questioning at the US Open. The world No. 1 had made headlines by telling a journalist to "think before you say stuff" after reaching the third round of the tournament. The reporter had asked her about "lots of parties" and "fun stuff" the week before the US Open. But Sabalenka snapped back: "You guys are like a joke. Parties, fun. Like why would you even say that? Why would you even think about that? Like what kind of question is that? "Just because I posted, like, some activities with brands, and you think that I've been partying, not training?" Sabalenka's comments certainly made headlines around the world - and divided opinion along the way. But former British No. 1 Konta has leapt to the defence of the two-time US Open winner in no uncertain terms. "I think this is the perfect example of don't always believe what you see on social media," Konta told Eurosport. "I think Aryna will have obligations to the brand that she works with. There is no doubt that an athlete, and a successful athlete like Aryna Sabalenka, is putting the necessary work in to be as successful as she is. "What I find most interesting about press conferences, and from my experience with press conferences - I've had my moments with them - you've got to realise that going into a press conference, the journalists have generally written the vast majority of their article before even coming into their room. "A lot of them are just looking for headlines, will be looking to get a reaction from you. "And, to be fair, from her point of view, I do think the question was slightly antagonistic in a way, but I think it's because the press feel like they can get a reaction out of her." - Alcaraz to take 'long breaks' from tennis amid 'impossible' demands - Medvedev slams umpire for 'most ridiculous decision I've seen in my life' On the court, Sabalenka, looking to add to her four majors with her first Grand Slam crown of 2026, cruised past Polina Iatcenko. Sabalenka beat the qualifier 6-1 6-1 inside an hour, and will face Kamilla Rakhimova next. The press conference had far more drama than the match. But Konta said that Sabalenka had good reason to speak out. "I don't think there's anything wrong with her explaining herself, or even her standing up for herself in that way, but yes, it definitely does get everyone talking," Konta added. "I have no doubt that Aryna Sabalenka's priorities are in check, because that's what professional athletes do. There are commitments off court, but those commitments off court wouldn't exist without her on-court results." Add TNT Sports as a preferred source here to enjoy more content like this. Watch and stream top tennis action, including the 2027 Australian Open and 2027 French Open, live with TNT Sports on HBO Max. Related Topics