Elena Rybakina emerged victorious at the US Open, defeating Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 in a thrilling final, solidifying her position as a dominant force in women’s tennis. At 27, the Kazakhstani player overcame the formidable top seed and two-time defending champion, despite initial challenges with her first serve. Rybakina’s powerful baseline game allowed her to gain momentum, although Sabalenka mounted a strong comeback to push the match into a decisive third set.
In the final set, Rybakina maintained her composure, delivering her best serves at critical moments and consistently pressuring her opponent. She clinched the match with her 12th ace, joyously raising her arms to celebrate securing yet another major championship. This victory concludes a remarkable period for Rybakina, who had earlier contended with an Achilles injury and the mounting pressure of vying for the world No 1 ranking. Her path to the final included impressive wins over several Grand Slam and Olympic champions.
Rybakina’s triumph at the US Open adds to her impressive resume, having previously won the Australian Open, US Open, and WTA Finals, establishing her as the premier hard-court player globally. This latest victory grants her three Grand Slam titles, following her Wimbledon win in 2022 and her Australian Open victory in 2026. In contrast, the defeat marked a setback for Sabalenka, thwarting her attempt for a third consecutive US Open title. Despite reaching eight straight Grand Slam finals on hard courts, she has often found it challenging to convert these appearances into championships.
The intense rivalry between Rybakina and Sabalenka intensified with this final, as Rybakina has now bested Sabalenka in their last three significant championship meetings, including two Grand Slam finals this year. With this victory, Rybakina has ascended to the top of the rankings, overtaking Sabalenka, and ushering in a new era of leadership in women’s tennis. The burgeoning rivalry between the two players promises to shape the future landscape of the sport.