Sabalenka earns 53-minute US Open win - but tension still shows

Aryna Sabalenka, the two-time defending US Open champion, secured a swift 53-minute victory over debutant Polina Iatcenko in the second round. Despite her 6-1, 6-1 win, Sabalenka, the world number one, did not display a confident demeanor and later had a confrontational exchange with a reporter during her post-match news conference.

The 28-year-old Russian is determined to win her first major title this season, which has been marked by both success and decline. Her quick victory over Iatcenko (22), who had only three winners all match, suggests that Sabalenka is in good form for her quest to complete a rare 'three-peat' of US Open titles. If she wins the tournament, she could potentially reclaim the world number one spot, as Elena Rybakina would still climb to the top by reaching the semi-finals.

However, Sabalenka was not satisfied with the question posed by a reporter regarding her alleged partying before the US Open. She firmly rejected the suggestion, stating that she was "getting serious" now that the tournament had started. Iatcenko, who looked nervous during the match, managed to get on the scoreboard and break in less than 90 seconds, holding on for the opening set. Despite losing a serve early in the second set, Sabalenka maintained her rhythm and secured a double break ahead to clinch the match.

The Russian earned an additional $190,000 through her US Open victory, bringing her total earnings for the year to $490,000. Earlier in the day, fourth seed Sofia Kenin also advanced in her quest for a maiden Grand Slam singles title, defeating fellow American Sofia Kenin 6-3, 6-1.