PARIS – In a dramatic turn of events at Roland-Garros today, World No. 1 Iga Świątek has launched a furious accusation against rival Aryna Sabalenka, claiming the Belarusian star received “secret coded messages” from her coach during a key match. The allegation, made just five minutes ago in a post-match press conference, has sent shockwaves through the tennis world and sparked widespread online debate.
A now-viral video circulating on social media appears to show Sabalenka’s coach making suspicious hand signals as she prepared to serve, raising questions about potential off-court communication – a clear breach of tennis’s strict no-coaching policy during play.
“This is not fair play,” Świątek told reporters, visibly frustrated. “Tennis is a mental battle as much as it is physical. If someone is being fed coded instructions during key points, it completely undermines the integrity of the sport.”
Świątek has formally demanded that the International Tennis Federation (ITF) and Roland-Garros officials launch an immediate investigation into the incident and suspend Sabalenka from the tournament pending the outcome.
The footage in question shows Sabalenka pausing briefly before a serve while her coach appears to make a subtle but deliberate hand gesture. Analysts online and in the media are already dissecting the clip, comparing it with earlier match footage to determine if there’s a pattern.
While courtside coaching has been trialled in other tournaments and even partially allowed on the WTA Tour, Roland-Garros currently upholds stricter policies. Any form of coded communication during live play is considered a serious violation of tennis regulations.
The tennis community has reacted swiftly and sharply. Some fans are standing by Sabalenka, citing the ambiguity of the video. Others are supporting Świątek’s demand for action, arguing that even the appearance of foul play damages the sport’s credibility.
Former pros and commentators have also weighed in. Australian tennis legend Todd Woodbridge tweeted, “If proven, this crosses the line. The rules are there for a reason.”
Tournament officials have yet to issue an official statement but are reportedly reviewing the footage. According to ITF regulations, intentional off-court coaching during Grand Slam matches can result in point penalties, fines, or disqualification, depending on the severity of the breach.
If the investigation proceeds and Świątek’s claims are substantiated, this could mark one of the most high-profile rule enforcement cases in recent Grand Slam history.
