Aryna Sabalenka finally found a dominant footing on the tour years after struggling to capture the WTA’s top spot. She finished the 2024 season as year-end World No. 1 and is now due for her title defense at the Australian Open. Ahead of her ‘Happy Slam’ campaign, the Belarusian featured in a cover shoot for Harper Bazaar Australia, and her boyfriend couldn’t help but heap praise on her chic makeover.

The 26-year-old clinched her second consecutive Major in Melbourne last year and later, earned redemption in New York. She then lifted the Wuhan Open title as well during the Asian swing but, fell short of her quest at the WTA Finals. However, the WTA ranking leader put all concerns to rest after commencing her 2025 season with a triumph in Brisbane. She registered a comeback victory over qualifier Polina Kudermetova in the summit clash.

As the top seed prepares for her defense at the Melbourne Slam next, Sabalenka sat down for an interview with Harper Bazaar Australia and graced the front cover of the fashion magazine. In a series of photos posted on the magazine’s Instagram handle, Sabalenka posed for a beach photoshoot as she donned a variety of designer ensembles. Her wardrobe lineup included stunning jackets from Ralph Lauren, Gucci, and Hermes, which were coupled with a riveting timepiece from Audemars Piguet and Tiffany and Co. jewelry.

As the social media post gained traction, her boyfriend Georgios Franguli thought it best to bless the stunning update with his reaction. The Oakberry founder gushed over his girlfriend’s latest makeover on a picturesque beach in Florida and commented on her post saying, “How Lucky I am”. For those unaware, the couple was first seen together in April 2024 and publicized their relationship a month later, following Franguli’s appearance for her Madrid Open contest.

While Sabalenka has enjoyed remarkable success on the tour, she had something to share about her “sad story” during the same interview with Harper Bazaar.

Aryna Sabalenka emotionally addresses ‘regret’ of not spending enough time with family

Belarusian superstar Aryna Sabalenka talked about more than just fashion during an exclusive appearance with Harper Bazaar Australia. While her tour-level accolades have continued to pile up, the World No. 1 also experienced emotional turmoil following her father and former Ice Hockey player Sergey’s untimely demise in 2019 at just 43 years of age due to meningitis.

The 26-year-old regrets not creating enough memories with her father. The Belarusian also disclosed her wishes to spend more time with her younger sister Tonechka amid the demanding touring schedule. “It’s kind of a sad story, but right now I wish I could spend a little more time with my dad, and more time with my sister,” she said during the cover feature.

Sabalenka added, “Time flies and you never know what’s gonna happen tomorrow. It’s really important to be close to your family and to spend more time with your family, because life is crazy, and you have to appreciate what you have.” The defending champion will kick off her Melbourne campaign soon. Will she win the Australian Open title third time in a row?