The US Open 2026 women’s singles final has reached a decisive third set between Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina, renewing one of the tour’s most compelling rivalries.
Rybakina, who recently rose to the top of the WTA rankings, booked her spot in the championship match with a hard-fought victory over American fourth seed Coco Gauff in the semi-finals. After dropping the opening set 3-6, she rallied to win 6-4, 6-4.
Her path to the final included notable wins over former champions Naomi Osaka in the fourth round and a strong quarter-final performance against Zheng Qinwen, whom she overcame after losing the first set.
As the match moves into the deciding set, both players have showcased the high-stakes intensity that has come to define their encounters on the grand slam stage.
Both these women have been absolute warriors all tournament long. What a night at Flushing Meadows!
I still think Sabalenka’s power will be too much if she stays aggressive. Thoughts on the decider?
Wow, Rybakina had to come back from a set down against Sabalenka? That mental toughness is unreal.
This rivalry just keeps getting better. Can’t wait to see who cracks under pressure in the final set!