Does Aryna Sabalenka support Russia? Belarus star under criticism for appearing in Russian rapper's podcast
(Courtesy : @l_one_mars/Instagram)
Aryna Sabalenka’s stance amidst Russia-Ukraine war questioned once again.
Four-time Grand Slam champion Aryna Sabalenka has caught herself in fresh controversy after her recent appearance on a podcast hosted by Russian rapper L’One.
The interview, filmed last month for the “Bench” podcast under the “First & Red” media house, has sparked outrage among fans who have accused her of hypocrisy given the rapper’s vocal support for Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
Sabalenka, who has previously distanced herself from the conflict, now faces questions about her allegiances amid calls for accountability in the sports world.
The podcast episode featured Sabalenka in a casual chat with L’One (or Levan Gorozia) and his brother Merabi. While the discussion focused on her career highs, including four Australian Open final appearances and wins in 2023 and 2024, the association has drawn ire.
L’One, a Georgian-born artist who rose to fame in Russia’s hip-hop scene in the 2010s, has a controversial history tied to the Russia-Ukraine war. Known for hits like those from his time with the Marselle group and solo albums, he shifted to a more patriotic tone post-2022.
Also Read: When will Aryna Sabalenka play her next tournament after Dubai Open 2026 withdrawal?
Gorozia has admitted to providing financial support to Russian forces and expressed hopes for a Russian victory; while claiming he wants the conflict to end. His stance has alienated Georgian fans, given historical tensions, and he has cited concerns for drafted friends in Russia’s far east as reasons for his measured public comments.
Sabalenka, however, has consistently opposed the war. In press conferences, she stated: “I don’t support war, meaning I don’t support Lukashenko right now.” After her 2023 French Open quarter-final win over Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina, she added: “I don’t want my country to be in any conflict, I don’t support the war.”
At the 2026 Australian Open, amid similar criticism, she reiterated: “I want peace, and if I could change anything, I would definitely do that.” Despite these affirmations, her podcast choice has fueled debates on athletes’ responsibilities.
Fans slam Sabalenka on X platform
What is the latest controversy surrounding Aryna Sabalenka?
Sabalenka has found herself caught in a fresh controversy after filming a podcast with Russian rapper L’One, who is a vociferous backer of Putin in the Russia-Ukraine war.
Who is L’One?
L’One is a Georgia born artist Levan Emzarovich Gorozia, who rose to fame in Russia’s hip-hop scene in the 2010s and a controversial history tied to the Russia-Ukraine war. He is known for hits like Satellite, Lonely Universe and Marselle and ST and Moscow.
What is Aryna Sabalenka’s views on Russia-Ukraine war?
Sabalenka has opposed the war on several occasions and reiterated “I want peace, and if I could change anything, I would definitely do that.”
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Aniruddh Seshadri Iyer is a passionate sports journalist at Khel Now, specializing in tennis and Olympic sports. An engineer by training, he found his storytelling passion through iconic Grand Slam and Olympic moments. Known for sharp analysis and insightful coverage, he draws inspiration from Novak Djokovic’s resilience. Outside journalism, he enjoys reading, traveling, and playing the guitar.