Elena Rybakina captured her third Grand Slam title on Saturday at the US Open, overcoming Aryna Sabalenka with a score of 6-4, 5-7, 6-2. This victory not only signifies Rybakina's ascension to the world number one ranking but also ends Sabalenka's impressive bid for a third consecutive title at Flushing Meadows.
Rybakina, who had already ensured her rise to the top of the WTA rankings by reaching the semi-finals in New York, showcased her skill and determination throughout the match. The Kazakhstani player previously won her first Grand Slam at Wimbledon in 2022 and added another title at the Australian Open earlier this year, making this latest triumph a remarkable achievement in her burgeoning career.
"It feels amazing," Rybakina expressed after the match. "It's still so difficult to process what happened. Too much achievements these few weeks. I'm super happy, very proud of all the work. It's just amazing." Her victory over Sabalenka also ended the latter's 20-match winning streak in New York, where Sabalenka had not lost since her defeat to Coco Gauff in the 2023 final.
Aryna Sabalenka, who was aiming to join the ranks of tennis legends Chris Evert and Serena Williams by winning three consecutive US Open titles, fought valiantly throughout the match. Despite losing the first set, she rallied in the second, breaking Rybakina's serve to force a decisive third set. "I wish I could have performed a little better," Sabalenka admitted to the crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium, her voice filled with emotion. "But I guess next year."
In the final set, Rybakina regained her composure and took control early, breaking Sabalenka's serve and maintaining her advantage. Although she faced some challenges, including two double faults while serving for the match, Rybakina ultimately sealed her victory with an ace. Reflecting on the match, she noted, "I feel like the match was so close. Even first set I got early break. Then it was kind of a little bit easier to step in, to be aggressive."
Sabalenka, visibly disappointed, acknowledged Rybakina's superior performance. "I'm obviously not really happy with the level I played today," she said. "But she served incredible. She played really aggressive, great tennis. She was simply a better player today than me." This loss marks the first year since 2022 that Sabalenka will finish without a major title.
The final showcased the power and precision of both players, with Rybakina’s formidable serve and aggressive play putting her in a strong position. She consistently pressured Sabalenka, converting three out of twelve break points, while Sabalenka struggled to find her rhythm early on. Rybakina's ability to seize control in crucial moments ultimately made the difference in this thrilling contest.
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