Giovana Gelhoren
Updated on: October 8, 2024 3:22 pm GMT
Aryna Sabalenka’s Relationship with Georgios Frangulis: A Supportive Partnership Amidst Trials
Aryna Sabalenka, currently ranked No. 2 in the world, is preparing to vie for her third Grand Slam singles title at the 2024 US Open. The Belarusian tennis star will face Jessica Pegula in the final, hoping to capture her second Grand Slam win of the year following victories at the Australian Open. However, her path to success has not been without personal hardships. Sabalenka has received tremendous support from her boyfriend, Georgios Frangulis, who has been a significant presence through both triumph and tragedy in her life.
Background of Aryna Sabalenka
Aryna Sabalenka has emerged as one of the most consistent performers in women’s tennis, particularly in Grand Slam tournaments. Since 2021, she has made her mark by winning back-to-back Australian Opens in 2023 and 2024, and also reaching the finals of the US Open and semifinals of both Roland-Garros and Wimbledon during the past three seasons. Her impressive hard court record in Slams is noteworthy, boasting an exceptional 26-1 win rate since the beginning of 2023, underscoring her status as a formidable competitor on the circuit.
Personal Struggles and Support
Despite her athletic success, Sabalenka’s life has been marked by personal loss and emotional challenges. In 2019, her father, Sergei, passed away from meningitis at the age of 43. More recently, she experienced further tragedy with the death of her ex-boyfriend, Konstantin Koltsov, in March of this year. Koltsov, a former ice hockey player, tragically took his own life while in Miami for the Miami Open, creating an extra layer of heartbreak for Sabalenka, who had already ended their relationship prior to this event.
Throughout these difficult times, Georgios Frangulis has emerged as a source of strength and comfort for Sabalenka. The couple’s relationship publicly began in April 2024, when they were photographed together, marking a new chapter in her life. Since then, Frangulis has been a constant presence at her matches, providing emotional and moral support.
Who is Georgios Frangulis?
Georgios Frangulis, 31, hails from a diverse background. Though born in Brazil, his family roots trace back to Thessaloniki, Greece. He has lived in the United States since 2014, moving from Miami to Venice Beach. Frangulis initially pursued a legal career, studying to become a lawyer but did not take the Brazilian Bar Association exam. Instead, he transitioned into motorsports, competing in the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge races.
One of his most prominent successes is the founding of Oakberry, a superfood brand specializing in açaí products. Established in 2016, the company has expanded significantly, raising $63 million in capital in 2023 and operating over 700 stores across more than 40 countries. Notably, Oakberry became a sponsor of Sabalenka earlier this year, further intertwining their professional and personal lives as she took on the role of a brand ambassador.
A Source of Positivity
Sabalenka has openly expressed gratitude for the support that Frangulis has provided during what she has described as a “difficult year.” In interviews, she has shared how important his presence has been in uplifting her spirits amid personal and professional turmoil. “There was a really tough period where I was really happy to have him by my side, always cheering me up,” she stated, highlighting his role in helping her maintain a balanced perspective and find joy away from the court.
Frangulis’s unwavering support was particularly evident when Sabalenka faced challenges earlier this season, including a shoulder injury that forced her to withdraw from Wimbledon and her decision to skip the Olympics. The couple’s bond has strengthened, with Frangulis accompanying her throughout the North American hard-court summer and witnessing her journey back to top form.
Cincinnati Open Success
Sabalenka’s fortunes changed dramatically as she captured the title at the Cincinnati Open, defeating top-ranked player Iga Swiatek along the way. This victory restored confidence and marked a pivotal moment in her season. In her victory speech, she took time to thank Frangulis, reflecting on how he has been vital in her recent resurgence on the court. “That was a really great tournament for me,” she remarked, conveying her happiness in both personal and professional spheres.
Looking Ahead to the US Open
As the 2024 US Open approaches, Aryna Sabalenka is set to compete for her elusive title, having finished as runner-up to Coco Gauff in the previous year’s final. This time, she is determined to succeed, with Georgios Frangulis by her side as her greatest supporter. His presence offers her not just comfort but also a sense of stability as she navigates the pressures of high-stakes competition.
Sabalenka has done really well in the past, and now with Frangulis by her side, she is ready to take on the challenges ahead. As fans get excited about her upcoming match against Pegula, Sabalenka’s story shows her ups and downs in tennis, including love, loss, and her strong spirit. She is determined to shine at the US Open once more.
