Rybakina thumps Osaka, sets US Open quarter-final clash with Zheng

Elena Rybakina, the world No 2, defeated four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka 6-1, 6-4 in their match on Monday. The clash set up a US Open quarter-final between Rybakina and China's Zheng Qinwen for the former, marking her first appearance in the last eight at the tournament. Rybakina, who clinched the French Open title this year alongside her 2022 Wimbledon crown, is poised to surpass Aryna Sabalenka at the top of the world rankings if she advances to the semi-finals, assuming Sabalenka wins her third consecutive US Open title.

Rybakina expressed her ambition, stating, "I want it," but added, "I don't know anyone who wouldn't wish this. But, I try to approach my next match like everyone else - let's see what happens." The Kazakhstani won the match in just 66 minutes, unleashing 29 winners and saving the lone break point she encountered. Osaka, despite battling through two match points in the penultimate game, ultimately succumbed to Rybakina's unforced errors, which have been a recurring issue throughout the tournament.