The US Open is no stranger to electrifying moments, but few could have predicted the blend of romance and athletic prowess that unfolded under the bright lights of Louis Armstrong Stadium on August 29, 2025. As Aryna Sabalenka, the world No. 1 and defending champion, battled it out in her third-round match against Leylah Fernandez, the crowd was treated to a spectacle that went well beyond the baseline rallies and booming serves.
Midway through the contest, the jumbotron panned to the stands, capturing a scene that quickly stole the spotlight—even from the tennis stars on the court. A man, clearly nervous but determined, dropped to one knee and produced a ring from his pocket, proposing to his partner in front of thousands of fans. The woman, visibly stunned, covered her face in disbelief before tears of joy streamed down her cheeks. Her answer was an emotional and resounding yes, and the couple sealed the moment with a heartfelt embrace as the stadium erupted in applause and cheers.
Sporting arenas have long been the backdrop for grand romantic gestures, but for Sabalenka, this was a first. "I think it's the first time that someone proposed during my match, and it was a very sweet moment, but I was just trying not to start like smiling because it's super cute, and I believe they are super happy right now. I was just trying to keep focusing on my game," Sabalenka told reporters after the match, her voice carrying a mix of amusement and genuine warmth. "It was a great moment. And as I said on court, I wish them a happy marriage."
The proposal, which played out in real time for both the crowd and the millions watching at home, added an unexpected layer of emotion to an already charged encounter. The couple’s joy was palpable, their faces a mix of shock and elation, and their story instantly became the talk of the tennis world. The entire stadium seemed to unite in celebration, momentarily setting aside the tension of the match to revel in the power of love.
But Sabalenka, ever the competitor, managed to keep her composure. The defending champion was in no mood to let distractions, however sweet, derail her title defense. Facing a determined Leylah Fernandez, Sabalenka showcased her trademark aggression and resilience. She took the first set 6-3, establishing control with her powerful groundstrokes and unyielding focus. The second set, however, proved to be a different story, as Fernandez pushed the world No. 1 to the brink, forcing a tense tiebreak.
In the decisive moments, Sabalenka’s experience shone through. She held her nerve and clinched the tiebreak 7-2, sealing a 6-3, 7-6 (2) victory and booking her place in the fourth round. The win was more than just a step forward in her title defense—it was a measure of revenge. "I really wanted this revenge," Sabalenka admitted in her on-court interview, referencing her previous encounters with Fernandez. "I'm very happy with the win."
Sabalenka’s journey at the US Open has been marked by both personal and professional highs. The three-time Grand Slam champion has continued to impress fans and pundits alike with her relentless drive and unwavering confidence. Yet, even as she chases history on the court, Sabalenka remains grounded by the support she receives off it—particularly from her boyfriend, Georgios Frangulis.
Speaking candidly about her relationship with Frangulis, Sabalenka offered a glimpse into the role he’s played during challenging periods in her career. "There was a really tough period where I was really happy to have him by my side, always cheering me up, always making sure that we are doing some fun stuff. But I make sure I kind of forget about tennis and focus on the good things and enjoy my life. Even when things are going wrong in my career. So yeah, he was my biggest support, and yeah, really happy to have him by my side," Sabalenka told People.
Her playful side also came out after the match, as she joked about the proposal she’d witnessed. "But I looked at my boyfriend," she said with a laugh, adding, "No pressure." The comment drew laughs from the press room and quickly went viral, endearing her even further to fans who appreciate her candor and sense of humor.
Sabalenka’s ability to balance the intense demands of professional tennis with the joys and challenges of her personal life has become a hallmark of her career. As the reigning US Open champion and world No. 1, the expectations are sky-high. Yet, she continues to meet them head-on, blending steely determination with a refreshing authenticity that resonates both on and off the court.
The match itself was a showcase of high-quality tennis, with Fernandez pushing Sabalenka to raise her level. The Canadian, known for her fighting spirit and court craft, matched the Belarusian shot for shot in the second set, forcing a tiebreak that had the crowd on the edge of their seats. But in the end, it was Sabalenka’s power and precision that made the difference, as she powered through the crucial points to secure her place in the next round.
With her victory, Sabalenka continues her march toward a potential fourth Grand Slam title, further cementing her status as one of the sport’s elite. Her blend of athleticism, mental toughness, and genuine personality has made her a fan favorite, and moments like the one at Louis Armstrong Stadium only add to her growing legend.
As the US Open rolls on, all eyes will remain on Sabalenka—not just for her formidable game, but for the way she embraces the human side of sport. Whether it’s sharing a light-hearted moment with her boyfriend or wishing a newly engaged couple well, she reminds us that, at its core, tennis is about more than just wins and losses. It’s about connection, resilience, and the stories that unfold both inside and outside the lines.
With the crowd still buzzing from the mid-match proposal and Sabalenka’s hard-fought win, anticipation is building for what lies ahead. Will the defending champion continue her run and capture yet another Grand Slam? One thing’s for sure: at this year’s US Open, the magic isn’t just confined to the court. The action—and the emotion—are very much alive and ongoing.
