In a thrilling three‑set finale at Flushing Meadows, Elena Rybakina captured her first U.S. Open championship and cemented her rise to world No. 1. The 27‑year‑old, born in Russia and playing under the Kazakhstani flag, overcame two‑time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka 6‑4, 5‑7, 6‑2 on Saturday.
Match Summary
Rybakina entered the match already assured of overtaking Sabalenka in the rankings next week, but the title added a historic milestone. She broke Sabalenka’s 19‑match winning streak at the U.S. Open, a run that began after a loss to Coco Gauff in the 2023 final.
Despite serving less than half of her first serves, Rybakina applied relentless pressure with a strong return game, creating twelve break opportunities and converting three crucial ones. Her aggressive baseline play forced Sabalenka into defensive positions, and the Kazakhstani‑representative’s composure never wavered.
Player Reactions
“It’s tough to find words right now, honestly,” Rybakina said after the match. “I don’t expect nothing like this coming to this tournament. I’ve been dealing with a little bit with an injury, but somehow everything aligned together on my side.”
Sabalenka, who hoped to become the first player since Serena Williams (2012‑14) to win three consecutive U.S. Open titles, expressed disappointment but optimism for the future. “I really felt like home here and cannot wait to come back next year,” she said. “I wish I could perform a little bit better but I guess next year.”
Prize Money and Rankings Impact
Rybakina’s victory earned her $5.5 million, the largest prize ever awarded at a Grand Slam tournament. The win ties her with Sabalenka and French Open champion Mirra Andreeva for the most titles this season, each holding three.
With the triumph, Rybakina secured enough points to overtake Sabalenka in the WTA rankings, ending Sabalenka’s 99‑week reign at the top. The shift will be reflected in the official rankings on Monday.
Career Context
Rybakina’s ascent follows a rapid accumulation of major titles. She captured her first Grand Slam at Wimbledon in 2022 and earlier this year defeated Sabalenka for the Australian Open crown, making her the only player to beat Sabalenka in two different majors this season.
Now only the French Open remains for Rybakina to complete a career Grand Slam, a feat achieved by a select group of women’s tennis greats.
Looking Ahead
Both finalists will likely return to the tour with renewed focus. Rybakina’s calm demeanor and powerful, low‑noise game have drawn praise from peers, while Sabalenka’s determination suggests she will be a formidable challenger next season.
Fans can expect the next chapter of this rivalry to unfold at upcoming events, including the French Open, where Rybakina will aim to add the final major to her résumé.
Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.
