Elena Rybakina has clinched her first United States Open title, delivering a decisive victory over two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka on Arthur Ashe Stadium. The win not only adds a major trophy to her collection but also confirms her status as the new world No 1.
Rybakina, who holds the title of reigning Australian Open champion, prevailed in three sets with scores of 6-4, 5-7, and 6-2 against the top-seeded Sabalenka. Prior to the final, Rybakina had already mathematically guaranteed that she would overtake Sabalenka at the summit of the WTA rankings in the following week’s updates.
The triumph marks a significant milestone for Rybakina, who dethroned a dominant finalist at Flushing Meadows to cement her rise to the sport’s pinnacle.
Interesting that she secured the ranking before the final. But winning the big one is what truly matters.
I still can’t believe she only won her first major here after already being No 1. What a storyline!
Sabalenka looked visibly frustrated out there. Is this the start of a new era for women’s tennis?
What a dominant finish! Rybakina really elevated her game in the final set. Deserved world No 1.