Rivalry on Court, Fun Off It
Aryna Sabalenka and Novak Djokovic may be chasing Grand Slam titles, but off the court, they’re waging a different kind of battle—a playful dance-off that’s taken the internet by storm. After Djokovic cheekily mimicked Sabalenka’s signature victory pose following his win over Cameron Norrie, the WTA World No.1 clapped back with a dancing response to her theme song “Tiger,” teasing, “How about that, Nole?”
Fans Choose Sides in Social Media Showdown
The banter continued as Djokovic responded with his own groovy move to “Slam it like Djokovic.” Sabalenka laughed it off in a press conference, saying, “I’m excited to see what he’s gonna come up with next. We need to ask social media—who’s doing better?” But she knows she’s up against a titan, noting that Djokovic’s massive fanbase (15.7M on Instagram alone) could tilt the votes.
On the Court: Sabalenka and Djokovic Deliver
While the dance battle draws laughs, the tennis has been deadly serious. Sabalenka stormed into the French Open final after handing Iga Świątek her first Roland Garros loss in 27 matches. Djokovic, meanwhile, is one step from a historic 25th Grand Slam, set to face Jannik Sinner in the semifinals. Yet amid the pressure, both stars have shown they can have fun.
Sabalenka Pushes Back on Djokovic Criticism
Sabalenka also fiercely defended Djokovic from media scrutiny about his age and consistency. “You’re trying to put as much pressure as you can on Novak. Leave him alone,” she told reporters. “He’s fit, strong… mentally, physically, I think he’s ready to play another two, three years.”
A Salute to Legends, a Torch for the Future
Reflecting on Nadal’s recent tribute and the changing guard in tennis, Sabalenka urged fans to cherish the present. “Imagine if \[Djokovic] retires tomorrow—then everyone’s going to be sad. Let him be.” Her comments signal a deep respect for tennis history, even as she writes her own chapter in it.
Who Dances Best—and Plays Better?
As both stars chase glory on clay, their lighthearted dance war adds a refreshing twist to a high-stakes tournament. The final question remains—who takes the crown, and who wins the dance floor? Let the finals—and the banter—roll on.