How do you usually handle self-doubt?
How do you find your confidence again?
Today, Jay welcomes two-time U.S. Open Champion Aryna Sabalenka just days after her incredible victory. Aryna opens up about what it truly feels like to lift the trophy again, not only as a moment of triumph, but as a deep release after seasons of heartbreak and near misses. She reflects on the sting of falling short in Grand Slam finals and the heavy weight of being labeled the favorite, sharing how those setbacks forced her to grow into a calmer, more emotionally balanced competitor. Aryna’s honesty about pain, pressure, and resilience gives a rare glimpse into the mindset of a true champion.
The conversation dives deep into the mental battles that shape elite performances. Aryna opens up about her relationship with nerves, the self-talk that carries her through the grind of a Grand Slam, and the inner dialogue she’s learned to trust. Rather than resisting fear or doubt, she has learned to accept them, turning vulnerability into strength. Aryna also highlights the critical role of gratitude, choosing to see the pressure of competition as a privilege rather than a burden. Through stories of her father’s encouragement and his lasting influence, Aryna illustrates how her drive is not only for personal success, but also to honor his legacy.
In this interview, you’ll learn:
How to Use Self-Talk to Stay Focused
How to Celebrate Your Wins Without Guilt
How to Balance Pressure With Gratitude
How to Keep Showing Up When It’s Hard
How to Surround Yourself With the Right People
How to Build Confidence Step by Step
Success isn’t only about reaching the finish line, it’s about the discipline of showing up, the courage to keep going when it’s difficult, and the willingness to celebrate even the small wins along the way.
With Love and Gratitude,
Jay Shetty
What We Discuss:
00:00 Intro
01:28 How Does It Feel To Win… Again?
02:18 Toughest Moments Up to This Point
03:54 Lessons Learned From Defeat
05:52 Preparing for the Pressure
07:54 Inside the Mind of a Champion
11:20 What is The Hardest Part of Being at the Top?
12:57 The Importance of Celebration
19:10 How Did You Find Tennis?
21:08 What Inspires You?
24:12 A Champion’s Morning Routine
28:15 Balancing Work and Personal Life
29:16 Fighting for Equality in Sports
31:32 The Role of Fashion in Confidence
33:11 Turning Grief Into Strength
37:34 How Do You Define Love?
39:31 Why Discipline Defines Success
41:00 Have You Ever Wanted to Give Up?
43:30 The Purpose of Hard Challenges
45:19 Unique Rituals and Habits
47:26 Who is Your Toughest Opponent?
49:21 The Power of Having the Right People by Your Side
55:19 Favorite Sports Beyond Tennis
56:25 Mastering Your Time
58:45 The Value of Rest and Recovery
59:39 Battle of the Sexes
01:02:43 Aryna on Final Five
Episode Resources:
https://www.youtube.com/@ArynaSabalenka
https://www.instagram.com/arynasabalenka/
https://www.facebook.com/arynasabalenka/
@aryna.sabalenka
https://www.instagram.com/jayshetty
https://www.facebook.com/jayshetty/
https://x.com/jayshetty
https://www.linkedin.com/in/shettyjay/
https://www.youtube.com/@JayShettyPodcast
http://jayshetty.me
