Aryna Sabalenka teases Nike tiger logo, US Open mixed entry in Dubai

DUBAI—Are we getting closer to an Aryna Sabalenka signature line? The logo is already in place.

The world No. 1 opened up about the latest tiger to join her ambush of jungle cats ahead of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, helping to design the logo that popped up on her Nike sneakers during the 2025 Australian Open.

Read more: Sabalenka “designs dresses in \[her\] head,” dreams of Nike line

“I sent them some ideas because I also have a tiger on the WHOOP,” she said, gesturing to the wearable on her wrist. “I think there’s so many tigers! I just wanted to change it a little bit, so we went with more of a jumping tiger.

“It’s just a little different picture; I don’t want to keep it same-same every time.”

The three-time Grand Slam champion has been eager to revamp her on-court style since returning to the top of the WTA rankings last fall, taking cues from New York Fashion Week after winning the US Open to draw inspiration for her dream line.

“We’re working really hard with Nike to push them toward something really cool for me,” she promised during her Media Day interview on Sunday. “I really hope we figure it out soon because I really like that collaboration with the little tiger detail on my shoes.

“Nike is helping me feel special and unique. I think it’s a cool logo and I like it. It’s giving me more motivation to keep pushing myself.”

Speaking of redesigns, the refreshed US Open mixed doubles tournament may serve as another motivation for the defending champion. Though Sabalenka has mainly focused on singles since winning her second major doubles title in 2021, Dubai’s top seed is intrigued by the shortened format, set to play out during the tournament’s annual Fan Week.

“I’d like to play,” said Sabalenka, who won the women’s doubles title with Elise Mertens back in 2019. “I believe it’s a two-day event, and I always enjoy playing doubles. It’s a little fun, sort of exhibition, and that gives me good energy. It helps me to play well in the [singles] tournament. I think it might be fun to play.”

When it came to potential partners, Sabalenka demurred.

“It’s definitely going to be someone good!” she said with a laugh.