Rybakina takes over as women’s world No1 after beating Sabalenka
NEW YORK: Elena Rybakina delivered a masterclass in power and composure on Saturday at Arthur Ashe Stadium, defeating Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 to capture her first US Open title.
The triumph not only secured the Kazakh star her third Grand Slam singles crown and second major of 2026, but it also capped off her ascent to the world No. 1 ranking, dethroning Sabalenka at the very top of women’s tennis.
The final brought together the sport’s premier hard-court rivals in a contest defined by heavy baseline striking and high stakes. Sabalenka entered the match seeking a historic third consecutive US Open title, attempting to extend a 19-match winning streak at Flushing Meadows. However, Rybakina established early control. Striking with ruthless precision from the back of the court, Rybakina earned the opening set’s decisive break in the fifth game after a Sabalenka double fault. Maintaining a calm demeanor, Rybakina served out the first set 6-4, backed by an impressive 85% win rate on her first serve.
Sabalenka fought back valiantly in the second set, displaying the fierce determination that has defined her reign in New York. Raising her intensity and pressing on return, the Belarusian broke through late in the set to force a decider at 7-5.
Despite losing the momentum, Rybakina reset quickly for the third set. Refusing to let Sabalenka dictate play, she broke early for a 2-1 lead and continued to apply relentless pressure. Rybakina hit 12 aces throughout the match, fittingly sealing her championship victory with a booming ace on match point after two hours and 21 minutes.
For Rybakina, the win marks a monumental milestone, adding to her 2022 Wimbledon and 2026 Australian Open titles, leaving her just a French Open trophy shy of a career Grand Slam. Having previously struggled to make deep runs in New York, Rybakina’s breakthrough performance earned her $5.5 million in prize money—the largest payout in Grand Slam history. With this victory, Rybakina cements her position as the dominant force of the 2026 season and takes her place at the summit of the WTA tour.
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