Kai Trump has expressed her backing for Aryna Sabalenka ahead of her Miami Open final showdown with Coco Gauff. The world No.1 is set to renew her rivalry with Gauff on Saturday, as the American reaches her first ever Miami final. Regardless of the outcome, Gauff will ascend to third in the global rankings, but she’ll be keen to triumph over Sabalenka.
Trump, a student at the University of Miami, was spotted at the tournament earlier this week and had the opportunity to meet Sabalenka. Despite Gauff being the local favourite, Trump seems to be cheering for Sabalenka. She posted a photo with the tennis ace on Instagram, captioning it: “Had so much fun watching @arynasabalenka. Let’s get it on Saturday.”
Her allegiance comes after remarks made by Sabalenka about the US president and Kai’s grandfather, Donald Trump.
She commented on his absence from last year’s US Open final where she emerged victorious over Amanda Anisimova.
Sabalenka said: “It just seems to me that he is the president, he probably has his own schedule.
“And still, probably, Alcaraz and Sinner after such incredible two finals that they played in Paris and London.
“It will be a really spectacular match, and I don’t think it is some kind of disrespect for women’s tennis.
“I know that he follows women’s tennis and supports it, so one hundred percent. It’s like he probably has his own busy schedule.”
Ahead of the final, Sabalenka stated: “It’s going to be a battle and I’m super excited to play her in another final. A lot of rallies, a lot of emotions, a lot of aggression, a lot of fun.”
Meanwhile, Gauff added: “It feels great to be at home. I am alternating between my parents’ house and my own, depending on how late we finish. They live a bit closer, so it is nice to have that family support.”