Roddick Defends Sabalenka's US Open Racket Smash, Cites Double Standard in Sports

Key points

• Sabalenka threw and smashed her racket on the court after losing the US Open final to Rybakina, drawing criticism from fans and pundits like Chanda Rubin.
• Andy Roddick defended Sabalenka, stating he does not care if players break their own equipment as long as they show basic respect to their opponents.
• Roddick highlighted a double standard, noting that athletes in other sports are criticized for being too happy after winning, while tennis players are criticized for expressing frustration after losing.
• Sabalenka has lost two Grand Slam finals in 2026, including the Australian Open and US Open, both to Rybakina, and has won 19 Grand Slam matches without securing a title.
• Roddick referenced Sabalenka's previous controversial comments after losing the 2025 Roland Garros final, emphasizing that public disrespect to opponents is the line not to cross.

Background

This incident follows a series of US Open 2026 events where Andy Roddick has been vocal about tournament dynamics, including criticizing serve timing rules and praising Carlos Alcaraz's form. Sabalenka's 2026 season has been marked by strong performances in non-Grand Slam events, including titles in Brisbane, Indian Wells, and Miami, but continued Grand Slam final losses.

Why it matters

The debate highlights ongoing tensions in tennis regarding player emotional expression and media scrutiny, with Roddick's defense suggesting a need for more leniency toward human reactions in high-pressure sports contexts.

What to watch

Sabalenka will begin her 2027 Grand Slam campaign in January at the Australian Open, aiming to break her Grand Slam title drought after a 2026 season marked by multiple final appearances without victory.