Aryna Sabalenka, the top-ranked player in women’s tennis, shared news of her engagement to Brazilian businessman Georgios Frangulis on Tuesday, just before the start of the WTA 1000 tournament here in the Coachella Valley. The Belarusian athlete, 27, posted videos on Instagram showing the romantic proposal, which took place on the eve of the event.
In the footage, Frangulis kneels in a candlelit area adorned with flowers, presenting a ring as the couple shares a kiss. Sabalenka captioned the post simply, “You and me, forever,” with emojis of an infinity symbol, a diamond ring, and a white heart. She dated the moment March 3, 2026, indicating the proposal happened that evening.
Sabalenka later joked about her casual look during the surprise. “I obviously had no idea this was happening tonight,” she wrote in an Instagram Story, noting she wore jeans and a plain white T-shirt. “I would have dressed up a bit more if I knew.” The lighthearted comment highlighted her down-to-earth personality amid the excitement.
On Wednesday, the WTA released a video of Sabalenka at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, proudly displaying her engagement ring while cradling her new puppy, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel named Ash. The clip captured her walking the grounds with the dog in her arms, adding a personal touch to the announcement as she prepares for competition.
The engagement comes after Sabalenka made playful hints about her future with Frangulis earlier this year. In January, after claiming the Brisbane title, she thanked him during the trophy ceremony and quipped that she hoped to “call you something different soon.” She added with a smile that she wanted to “put a little more pressure” on him, drawing laughs from the crowd. Those remarks now seem prescient, as the couple takes the next step in their relationship.
Sabalenka and Frangulis first appeared together publicly in April 2024, sparking interest among fans. Since then, he has been a steady presence in her player’s box at major tournaments, supporting her through highs like her Australian Open and US Open victories that year. By 2026, Sabalenka has solidified her status as a dominant force, holding the world No. 1 ranking and earning four Grand Slam singles titles. Her powerful serve and aggressive baseline play have made her a standout on the tour, where she consistently battles top competitors like Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff.
Frangulis, 37, is the founder and CEO of Oakberry, a global superfood brand specializing in açaí bowls and smoothies. The company, which started in Brazil, has expanded to over 40 countries, reflecting his entrepreneurial success. Born in Brazil with Greek roots, Frangulis has built a multimillion-dollar business while maintaining a low-profile personal life. He was previously married to Isabella Armentano in 2016, though details of their separation remain private.
The ring itself has drawn attention for its size and design. Experts describe it as featuring a large oval-cut diamond, estimated at 12 carats, set on a pavé band with emeralds—Sabalenka’s favorite stone. The custom piece symbolizes their bond, blending elegance with personal meaning.
News of the engagement spread quickly through the tennis community, prompting warm responses from peers. Novak Djokovic, the men’s all-time Grand Slam leader, commented with hearts and a simple “Congratulations!” Carlos Alcaraz, the young Spanish star, added, “Oh wow, congrats!” with emojis expressing joy. Other players, including Amanda Anisimova, who could face Sabalenka in the Indian Wells quarterfinals, shared similar sentiments. The ATP Tour highlighted Djokovic’s message, noting the cross-tour support as both circuits converge at the BNP Paribas Open.
Sabalenka’s path to this happy milestone has not been without challenges. She has spoken openly about overcoming personal losses, including the death of her former boyfriend, Konstantin Koltsov, in 2024. That year marked a turning point, as she found stability with Frangulis and channeled her energy into her career. Fans admire her resilience, seeing her engagement as a well-deserved chapter of joy.
As Indian Wells begins, Sabalenka enters as the top seed, aiming to add another title to her resume. The tournament, often called the “fifth Grand Slam” for its prestige, draws massive crowds to the desert venue. She has performed well here in the past, reaching the final in 2023. With her team—including coach Anton Dubrov—by her side, she balances professional demands with this personal celebration.
Frangulis has accompanied her to events worldwide, from Melbourne to New York, offering quiet encouragement. Their relationship appears grounded in mutual respect, with Sabalenka crediting him for helping her stay focused amid the sport’s pressures. In interviews, she has described him as her biggest supporter, someone who understands the rigors of her schedule.
The couple’s story resonates beyond tennis, appealing to those who follow celebrity romances. Social media buzzed with well-wishes, from fans posting heart emojis to accounts analyzing the proposal’s romantic setup. One viral clip showed Sabalenka flashing the ring during practice, her smile infectious.
Looking ahead, Sabalenka has a busy season, with Grand Slams in Paris, London, and New York on the horizon. She has expressed goals of defending her titles and pushing her limits. Off the court, wedding plans remain under wraps, but the engagement signals a commitment to building a life together.
For now, as she steps onto the Indian Wells courts, Sabalenka carries the glow of new beginnings. Her announcement reminds everyone that even elite athletes cherish life’s simple joys—love, family, and a faithful companion like Ash. Tennis followers will watch closely, cheering for her success in matches and milestones alike.
