Aryna Sabalenka reacts to Novak Djokovic’s imitation following her quarterfinal triumph at Roland Garros

Aryna Sabalenka has secured her place in yet another WTA semifinal with a commanding victory over Chinese sensation Qinwen Zheng. This latest triumph at Roland Garros propels the Belarusian ace into the final four, following a match defined by tenacity and precision. Post-match, Sabalenka took a lighthearted jab at Novak Djokovic after his playful imitation of her celebration during his own French Open contest.

In a contest marked by pivotal moments, Sabalenka capitalized on an officiating decision that disrupted Zheng’s momentum. Leading by two points in the first set, Zheng encountered a potentially game-altering call from the official. As the decision reversed, concluding the ball was indeed out, Zheng, visibly perturbed, briefly halted play, altering the trajectory of the match.

Sabalenka asserted her dominance across straights sets, avenging her prior loss to Zheng at the Italian Open. Sealing victory with a 7-6, 6-3 triumph, she now boasts a remarkable 34-9 record for the year and eagerly anticipates a potential clash with reigning champion Iga Swiatek in the semifinals.

Following her match, Sabalenka appeared in a video shared by Roland Garros‘ official social media on X, reacting to Djokovic’s mimicry. With a jubilant dance, she playfully challenged the Serbian legend, “How about that, Nole? You don’t have your song,” demonstrating her characteristic wit and charisma.

Djokovic’s lighthearted mimicry captivates fans

Djokovic, ever the entertainer, celebrated his advancement in the French Open with a nod to Sabalenka’s iconic post-match routine. Captured in a clip that has since captivated social media, Djokovic descended the stairs and ended his journey by mirroring Sabalenka’s distinctive celebration pose, a gesture that endeared him to fans as “classic Nole.”

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World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka sends clear message about Novak Djokovic’s retirement speculation

Sabalenka edges closer to sixth Grand Slam final

As the world’s number one, Sabalenka faces relentless pressure to perform in every competition. This looming potential final at Roland Garros carries profound significance, marking her inaugural final appearance on these Parisian courts.

Poised on the brink of her sixth Grand Slam final, Sabalenka aims to enhance her already impressive track record of 3-2 in such critical encounters. While each previous final presented its own challenges and triumphs, Sabalenka eagerly anticipates the opportunity to further cement her legacy.

Previous Grand Slam finals:

• 2023 Australian Open: Champion (defeated Elena Rybakina)
• 2023 US Open: Runner-up (lost to Coco Gauff)
• 2024 Australian Open: Champion (defeated Qinwen Zheng)
• 2024 US Open: Champion (defeated Jessica Pegula)
• 2025 Australian Open: Runner-up (lost to Elena Rybakina)

With anticipation building, tennis enthusiasts worldwide await Sabalenka’s next court appearance, eager to witness whether she will add a French Open title to her distinguished career achievements.