MusaAryna Sabalenka’s forehands usually steal the spotlight—but this week, it’s her fingernails that are making headlines. Yes, you read that right: her nails.
It all started with a close-up courtside photo from her latest match. While most fans were focused on her trademark game face and that lightning-fast serve, a few eagle-eyed viewers zoomed in on her perfectly manicured nails—and things quickly spiraled.
The manicure in question? Long, sharp almond tips painted a glossy crimson red… with one tiny twist. On her ring finger? A silver lightning bolt decal. Subtle? Maybe. Meaningless? Absolutely not—at least according to the tennis internet.
Facebook commenters were instantly in Sherlock Holmes mode:
“Is this a nod to her power game?”
“Wait… does this mean she’s a Swiftie?”
“Or is it a secret message for someone special?” 👀
One fan theory that really took off? That the lightning bolt symbolizes her comeback after recent injuries—a flashy little sign that she’s still a storm on the court. Another theory? She’s teasing a new sponsorship with a luxury nail brand (because of course she’d serve flawless branding too).
And then there’s the wild card theory: the lightning bolt is a low-key jab at a certain rival known for her “icy” demeanor. Now that would be spicy.
To add fuel to the fire, Aryna posted a Boomerang later that day: her holding a tennis ball up to the camera, flashing the nails, with the caption:
“Sharp on and off court 💅⚡”
Fans. Went. Wild.
It’s safe to say Sabalenka knows exactly what she’s doing. Whether it’s blistering serves, bold fashion, or cryptic manicures, she plays the media game like a seasoned pro.
So next time you see her grip the racket, look closely. Because in Aryna’s world, even a manicure can serve shade.
Musa
John Owolabi
Olaniyi Ayoola