Elena Rybakina delivered a commanding performance at the US Open, defeating two-time champion Naomi Osaka 6-1, 6-4 to book her spot in the quarter-finals. The victory brings the Kazakh second seed closer to achieving the world number one ranking for the first time.
On Louis Armstrong Stadium, Rybakina controlled the match from the outset, dropping just four points in a near-flawless display of serving. She secured a double break early in the first set and closed it out in only 21 minutes. Although Osaka showed more resistance at the start of the second set, she failed to convert her sole break point opportunity, allowing Rybakina to break again and take a 4-3 lead before sealing the victory.
The reigning Australian Open champion finished the match in 66 minutes, hitting 29 winners compared to Osaka’s nine, including seven aces. Her dominance on serve was evident as she did not drop a set throughout her opening three matches at the tournament.
Rybakina will now face China’s Zheng Qinwen in the last eight. The win moves Rybakina within touching distance of the top ranking, meaning she will assume the position if she wins her next match, regardless of whether current top seed Aryna Sabalenka successfully defends her title.
“Of course I want it, I don’t know anyone who won’t want this,” Rybakina said regarding the number one spot. “I tried to approach it the same way and do everything I can, and fight to the end of my next match. If I serve as well as I did today, I think I can do well. Let’s hope it goes my way.”
Meanwhile, reigning Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen staged a remarkable comeback from 5-0 down in the first set to defeat former champion Iga Swiatek in her fourth-round encounter.
What a matchup against Zheng! Can’t wait to see if Qinwen’s fighting spirit can stop Rybakina’s momentum.
Is it actually over if Sabalenka loses early? I am still slightly skeptical about Rybakina handling pressure in a final.
Rybakina’s serve was simply unbreakable today. She looks absolutely ready to claim the top spot next week.