TENNIS

The World number 5 and a three-time Grand Slam champion

January, 11, 2025-04:01

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The World number 5 and a three-time Grand Slam champion :

While Sabalenka’s path has been paved with fame and fortune, Aiava’s journey is one of resilience, overcoming personal and professional challenges. Regardless of the disparities in their careers, both women continue to pursue their passion for tennis and aim to make an impact at the tournament. This contrast was further underscored when Aiava, who has shown great potential as a young player (she was ranked the top player in the world for her age at 14), was fat-shamed on social media this week by some tennis "fans" on X. Despite these challenges, Aiava remains resilient, with her eyes on making her mark at the Australian Open. If she progresses past the first round, Aiava stands to earn $132,000 in prizemoney, with a potential $200,000 and a personal career milestone of surpassing $1 million in career earnings if she makes it to the second round.

On the other hand, Aiava, ranked 195th in the world, faces a different reality. Despite struggling with clothing sponsorships in recent years, Aiava recently found a "steal" by purchasing a vintage blue adidas dress for just $35 on Facebook Marketplace, a nod to her love for fashion and repurposing older items. Aiava has spoken candidly about the mental health battles she’s faced, crediting her fiancé, Corey, for his unwavering support through difficult times.

Sabalenka, the world number 5 and a three-time Grand Slam champion, is seen as a strong contender for the tournament with odds of $3 to win. With over $30 million in career prizemoney since turning professional in 2015, Sabalenka's life on tour is marked by sponsorships with high-end brands like Nike, Wilson, and Audemars Piguet, as well as private jets and a glamorous lifestyle. She is also dating Georgios Frangulis, a wealthy superfood entrepreneur and founder of Oakberry, which sponsors Sabalenka and has ties to the Haas F1 team.

In the lead-up to the Australian Open, the stark contrast between the careers of Aryna Sabalenka and Destanee Aiava is highlighted by their vastly different experiences on the professional tennis circuit.