Aryna Sabalenka faced a challenging exchange with a reporter following her dominant 6-1, 6-1 victory over Polina Iatcenko in the second round of the US Open. The match, which lasted just 53 minutes on Arthur Ashe Stadium, saw the two-time defending champion respond sharply to questions about her pre-tournament activities and social media presence.

Sabalenka, who had previously dealt with similar inquiries, emphasized that her off-court activities did not interfere with her training for the Grand Slam. In a tense moment, she remarked, "You guys are, like, a joke. Just because I posted, like, some activities with brands, and you think that I've been partying, not training? What kind of question is that?"

The exchange continued as the reporter clarified their intent, prompting Sabalenka to dismiss the line of questioning, stating, "Next question." She also expressed her determination as the tournament progressed, asserting, "Oh, yeah, I wasn't serious before that."

Looking ahead, the world No. 1 aims for her third consecutive title in New York, facing Kamilla Rakhimova next, as she seeks to extend her winning streak to 17 matches at Flushing Meadows.

In other matches, Carlos Alcaraz advanced to the third round after overcoming Jaime Faria with a score of 4-6, 6-0, 6-3, 6-2. Ignacio Buse celebrated a historic win, defeating Marcos Giron in a five-set battle, while Stefanos Tsitsipas came from behind to win against Lloyd Harris. Additionally, Frances Tiafoe kept American hopes alive with a victory over Rei Sakamoto.