“Thought about a human being before a dollar amount” – When Monica Seles lauded Gabriela Sabatini for supporting her World No. 1 freeze post-stabbing

In the realm of tennis history, the camaraderie between Monica Seles and Gabriela Sabatini stands out as a testament to sportsmanship.

The poignant moment when Seles was recovering from a horrific stabbing incident in 1993, Sabatini’s unwavering support for freezing Seles’ World No. 1 ranking showcased a rare depth of empathy. While many players opposed this idea, Sabatini’s decision to prioritize humanity over competition spoke volumes about her character.

Seles and Sabatini, renowned for their intense on-court battles, shared a memorable five-set final at the 1990 WTA Finals. Reflecting on this clash in 2015, Seles expressed her fondness for playing five-set matches, considering them a true measure of skill. Recounting their first encounter in 1988, Seles praised Sabatini as not only a formidable opponent but also a true “lady” both on and off the court.

Highlighting Sabatini’s pivotal role in supporting the freezing of Seles’ No. 1 ranking, the former World No. 1 emphasized Sabatini’s choice to prioritize humanity over financial considerations. Seles lauded Sabatini’s character, noting that such a decision spoke volumes about the Argentine’s integrity. This episode further solidified the respect and friendship that existed between the two tennis icons.

Over the course of 14 head-to-head clashes, Seles and Sabatini engaged in fierce competition, with Seles leading 11-3. Their battles unfolded in finals, Grand Slam semifinals, and even the dramatic 1988 Lipton International Players’ Championships. The last showdown occurred in the 1996 Canadian Open, with Seles emerging victorious. Beyond the statistics, the enduring legacy of their sportsmanship and mutual respect remains a cherished chapter in tennis history.