Elena Rybakina dethrones Aryna Sabalenka to claim US Open crown

New York - Elena Rybakina claimed the US Open title on Saturday, defeating Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 to become the world number one. Rybakina, who had already secured her place at the top by reaching the semifinals, added a third Grand Slam title to her collection, joining Wimbledon and the Australian Open victories in 2022 and January respectively.

"It feels amazing," Rybakina said, acknowledging the recent success. "It's still so difficult to process what happened. I'm super happy, very proud of all the work." Sabalenka's 20-match winning streak in Flushing Meadows came to an end, as she had not lost since losing to Coco Gauff in the 2023 final. "I wish I could have performed a little better," Sabalenka admitted, her voice breaking.

The Belarusian player had been aiming to become the third woman after Chris Evert and Serena Williams to win three straight US Open titles. Despite a courageous second set, where Sabalenka broke Rybakina for the first time in the final game, the challenger's trademark calmness prevailed. In the third set, Rybakina took an early break, which proved decisive.

Despite a final hiccup with two double faults on her serve for the match, Rybakina sealed the victory with an ace. "The match was so close," Rybakina reflected. "I got an early break in the first set, and then it was easier to be aggressive. In the second, she played very aggressively in important moments. I had some opportunities, made some mistakes.

But then in the third set, I told myself I could still do it. I needed to focus on my serve and take more risks when I had the chance." Sabalenka, visibly disappointed, hugged Rybakina at the net before smashing her racket, expressing her frustration. "I'm obviously not really happy with the level I played today," Sabalenka admitted.

"But she served incredible. She played really aggressive, great tennis. Better player today." The two dominant players in women's tennis exchanged serves throughout the match, with Rybakina's blistering serve intimidating Sabalenka throughout. Rybakina's ability to control the rallies and put pressure on her opponent was evident, as she seized control in the fifth game of the opening set.

Sabalenka's determination was clear, but she struggled to find the break points she needed. In the second set, Sabalenka showed signs of improvement, saving break points and even holding to love twice. However, she couldn't capitalize on her chances, ultimately failing to convert her first break points of the match. Despite the loss, Sabalenka remains confident, acknowledging her improved performance against Rybakina's serve.