Elena Rybakina emerged victorious against Aryna Sabalenka with a score of 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 to claim the US Open title in a thrilling final, solidifying her position as a dominant force in women’s tennis. The 27-year-old from Kazakhstan, despite early struggles with her first serve, managed to overcome the top seed and two-time defending champion. Rybakina capitalized on her powerful baseline play to gain an advantage, although Sabalenka staged a comeback to push the match to a deciding third set.
In the decisive set, Rybakina maintained her composure, producing her best serves at critical junctures and exerting continuous pressure on Sabalenka. She clinched the victory with her 12th ace and celebrated her triumph by raising both hands, marking another major title win. This victory is the culmination of an impressive period for Rybakina, who had been battling an Achilles injury leading up to the tournament, while also contending for the world No. 1 ranking. En route to the final, she defeated several Grand Slam and Olympic champions, underscoring her exceptional form.
Rybakina’s latest achievement adds to her list of accolades, having previously secured victories at the Australian Open and WTA Finals, establishing her as the preeminent hard-court player globally. Her US Open win grants her a third Grand Slam title, complementing her Wimbledon success in 2022 and another Australian Open victory in 2026. Meanwhile, Sabalenka’s defeat halted her pursuit of a third consecutive US Open championship. Although she has appeared in eight straight Grand Slam finals on hard courts, converting these opportunities into titles has been a challenge.
The final also highlighted the growing rivalry between Rybakina and Sabalenka, with Rybakina now having won their last three major tournament matchups, including two Grand Slam finals this year. As Rybakina ascends to the No. 1 ranking, surpassing Sabalenka, the women’s tennis scene is poised for an exciting era defined by this burgeoning rivalry.