Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka have both faced early tests in their first tournaments since the US Open. Sabalenka battled back from a set down to defeat Rebecca Sramkova at the Dongfeng Voyah Wuhan Open, while Djokovic has been taken to three sets in two of his three matches at the Rolex Shanghai Masters. Yet, according to the women’s world No. 1, their real preparation happened weeks earlier—away from official courts.

Before traveling to Asia, Sabalenka and her partner Georgios Frangulis spent time in Greece, where Djokovic now resides part-time. During their stay, Sabalenka and Djokovic shared several intense practice sessions that pushed both players physically and mentally.

Off the court, they also enjoyed a relaxed “double date” with their partners, adding a lighter touch to

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