Emirates has announced a partnership with world No.1 tennis player Aryna Sabalenka, marking the airline’s first official tennis ambassadorship.
The agreement builds on Emirates’ role as the Official Airline of all four Grand Slam tournaments. To coincide with the announcement, Sabalenka unveiled an Emirates A380 featuring a tennis-themed livery highlighting the airline’s sponsorship of the Australian Open, Roland Garros, Wimbledon and the US Open.
Tennis partnership
Dubai has been a long-standing base for Sabalenka’s training, reinforcing the connection between the player and the airline. The 27-year-old enters the partnership following a strong period in her career, including her fourth Grand Slam title after winning the US Open in September 2025.
She has also claimed back-to-back Australian Open titles in 2023 and 2024 and was runner-up at the 2025 Australian Open. Sabalenka has been named WTA Tour Player of the Year for the past two seasons.
Player comments
“In tennis, every little detail counts – so to align with a brand which matches my ambition and attention to detail makes this feel like a natural fit.
Travelling in world-class comfort with Emirates has been key to my preparation. But this partnership represents much more than that – because it also highlights what we, as women in sport, can achieve on the world stage.
I feel proud and excited to partner with Emirates, a brand whose values of quality and excellence closely align with mine.”
Emirates statement
Boutros Boutros, Emirates’ Executive Vice President for Corporate Communications, Marketing & Brand, said:
“Aryna is not only a champion on the court but a global icon who inspires millions through her determination and professionalism – qualities that resonate strongly with our ethos at Emirates. With Dubai as our shared home, we already have a strong connection with Aryna, and this partnership allows us to elevate our engagement in a truly meaningful way.
Together, we hope to create unique opportunities for fans to experience the Emirates journey, both in the air and at the heart of the sport. Whether it be by offering live tennis through our ice entertainment system, or a taste of Australia through our in-flight menu. Emirates can’t wait to see what Aryna can achieve at the Australian Open and beyond in 2026.”
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
