New Delhi: Former British No. 1 Johanna Konta has leapt to the defense of world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka after the Belarusian star hit back at a reporter who questioned her pre-tournament activities at the US Open.

Following her second-round victory, Sabalenka expressed visible frustration over a line of questioning regarding her off-court schedule leading into the Grand Slam. A journalist had asked: "How are you finding like your mood once now that the tournament has started? Obviously, last week it’s lots of parties and fun and stuff like that."

Sabalenka strongly rejected the premise, initially reacting with, "what kind of question did he ask?"

She further lambasted the reporter during her press conference: "You guys are like a joke. Parties? Fun? Why would you even say that? Why would you even think about that? Like, what kind of question is that? Just because I posted some activities with brands and you think that I've been partying?"

The exchange quickly made global headlines, prompting Konta to speak out in support of the two-time US Open champion.

"I think this is the perfect example of don't always believe what you see on social media," Konta told Eurosport. "I think Aryna will have obligations to the brand that she works with. There is no doubt that an athlete, and a successful athlete like Aryna Sabalenka, is putting the necessary work in to be as successful as she is."

"And, to be fair, from her point of view, I do think the question was slightly antagonistic in a way, but I think it's because the press feel like they can get a reaction out of her," Konta added.

Sabalenka, who is aiming for her third consecutive US Open singles title, demonstrated complete focus on court by dismissing her second-round opponent, Iatcenko, in just 54 minutes. The top seed hit 24 winners and converted six of eight break points during the dominant performance.

The victory extended her US Open winning streak to 15 matches and marked her 22nd consecutive second-round win at Grand Slam events.

Konta maintained that Sabalenka was fully justified in responding the way she did.

"I don't think there's anything wrong with her explaining herself, or even her standing up for herself in that way, but yes, it definitely does get everyone talking," Konta said. "I have no doubt that Aryna Sabalenka's priorities are in check, because that's what professional athletes do. There are commitments off court, but those commitments off court wouldn't exist without her on-court results." (IANS)