Elena Rybakina Crowned US Open Champion After Thrilling Final
Elena Rybakina has claimed the title of US Open champion, defeating Aryna Sabalenka and ending her quest for a remarkable third consecutive win at Flushing Meadows. In front of an enthusiastic crowd on Saturday, Rybakina displayed remarkable poise, winning the match 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 in a contest that lasted for two hours and 21 minutes.
The final moment of triumph came when Rybakina nailed an ace on championship point, sparking jubilant celebrations as she secured her first US Open title.
While Rybakina reveled in her victory, Sabalenka faced disappointment and frustration, which she vividly expressed by breaking her racket on the court.
Sabalenka’s Quest for History
Sabalenka was aiming to make history herself, striving to become only the third woman in the Open Era to win the US Open three years in a row. However, Rybakina’s strong performances throughout their encounters proved to be a hurdle for her. The Kazakh star had previously outplayed Sabalenka at the WTA Finals last year and again at the Australian Open earlier this year, before recently overtaking her to claim the number one ranking. With this latest victory, Rybakina has denied Sabalenka her third straight title and captured her third Grand Slam trophy overall.
This season alone, Rybakina has won two Grand Slam titles and now has three out of four major championship wins to her name, with only the French Open missing from her accolades.
First Set: Rybakina Takes Charge
Rybakina set the tone for the match early on, using her powerful serve and accurate shots to keep Sabalenka on the defensive. Despite Sabalenka’s strong start, Rybakina quickly found her rhythm, easily holding her serve after a brief struggle.
With the set tied at 2-2, Rybakina seized her moment, capitalizing on Sabalenka’s errors to take the lead at 3-2. She then maintained her edge, serving confidently and keeping the pressure on her opponent. After a series of intense rallies, Rybakina won the first set 6-4, having effectively controlled the pace of the game.
Second Set: Sabalenka’s Comeback
The second set saw Sabalenka demonstrating her resilience, battling back to claim it 7-5, which brought the match to a deciding third set. She fended off early pressure from Rybakina and gradually found her rhythm, relying on her powerful forehand to dictate play.
With the set tied at 4-4, Sabalenka pressed ahead, saving crucial break points and finally breaking Rybakina’s serve to take a 6-5 lead. After a closely contested game, she managed to hold her serve, sealing the set with a 7-5 score.
Final Set: Rybakina’s Dominance
As the third set began, Rybakina quickly took control again. After a tough opening game, she held her serve and broke Sabalenka’s serve at 2-1. From there, Rybakina remained unstoppable, expanding her lead with confident serves and aggressive returns.
Despite a brief fightback from Sabalenka, Rybakina’s consistency proved too much. With the score at 5-2, she stayed cool under pressure, ultimately reaching match point with another ace.
In a fitting finish, Rybakina sealed her victory with yet another ace, marking a career highlight by claiming the US Open title. Celebrating her achievement, Rybakina rejoiced while Sabalenka faced the challenge of coming to terms with the loss, finishing 2026 without a Grand Slam title.
For Rybakina, this victory is a significant milestone in an incredible season, solidifying her status among the best in women’s tennis.
