World No. 1 and multiple Grand Slam champion Aryna Sabalenka (28) has openly spoken about the negative side effects that come with her global fame. A particularly disturbing message from a "mom with three kids" left the Belarusian athlete shaken. Sadly, such reactions are all too common for public figures. However, they must not be accepted or normalized; instead, they should be condemned and brought to the public’s attention.

Moreover, authorities need to take stronger measures against online abuse to limit such situations that can put the physical and emotional well-being of victims at risk.

Following her historic Miami Open victory, Sabalenka has shed light on the disturbing nature of social media interactions. She revealed a message she received from a "mom with three kids," which included death threats and profanity. Sabalenka expressed her concern, saying, "Sometimes it’s a fake account, and I think, ‘You don’t even have the courage to show your face.’ Other times, it’s a profile of a mom with three kids, a happy family living a conventional life, and the messages are filled with hate and threats."

Sabalenka acknowledged that such experiences are emotionally difficult to process and has been shocked by the level of hatred directed at her without any provocation. She noted that while she receives appreciation, there will always be critics, referencing her controversial playing style, appearance, nationality, and personal life choices.

This year, Sabalenka got engaged to her millionaire boyfriend, Georgios Frangoulis (37), a Brazilian entrepreneur of Greek descent. The couple started dating in the first half of 2024 and spends most of their time together despite Sabalenka’s busy schedule as a two-time Australian Open champion (2.3, 2.4) and US Open champion (2.4, 2.5).

After being eliminated in the third round at Rome by Sorana Cîrstea (36, WTA No. 18), Sabalenka is preparing for the upcoming French Open (May 24 - June 7), where she reached the final last year.