Aryna Sabalenka stepped away from the hard-court calendar and onto a Milan runway this week, making her catwalk debut for Gucci at Vogue World: Milano. The world No. 2, preparing for a return to WTA competition after the US Open, featured in the event beneath the glass roof of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
Sabalenka takes part in Gucci’s Italian showcase
Sabalenka appeared during the third act of the production, a “Made in Italy” segment staged by the Italian fashion house. She wore a chocolate-brown turtleneck dress and later joined the full cast for the closing walk as Umberto Tozzi’s “Gloria” played.
- Sabalenka has been a Gucci ambassador since January.
- The Belarusian described walking for the label as “a dream.”
- Her appearance came at Vogue World: Milano, held inside Milan’s historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
Runway lesson from Irina Shayk
Before taking the runway, Sabalenka received a brief modelling lesson from Irina Shayk. The 40-year-old supermodel demonstrated how to pose, while Sabalenka watched closely and attempted to match her movements.
“I’m learning, I’m learning,” Sabalenka said with a smile as she prepared for her first fashion-show appearance.
Tennis names feature across the Milan event
Sabalenka was not the only player representing tennis at the event. Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti also walked in the show and shared a moment on the runway with actress Jennifer Lopez.
Naomi Osaka attended in a black sheer Chantilly blouse and skirt from Roberto Cavalli’s Fall 2026 collection. Osaka is a four-time Grand Slam singles champion and, like Sabalenka, is expected to resume her tournament schedule later this month.
China Open next on the WTA calendar
Sabalenka and Osaka are set to return following their post-US Open breaks at the WTA 1000 China Open, which starts on September 30. The Beijing tournament will bring Sabalenka back to the WTA Tour Driven by Mercedes-Benz, with the No. 2-ranked player returning from Milan to the competitive draw.
