Elena Rybakina’s US Open title run puts her on top of women’s tennis and Sabalenka has work to do

In New York, Elena Rybakina secured her place at the top of women's tennis after winning the U.S. Open final, dethroning Aryna Sabalenka. This marked her first annual payment, billed at $205.00 + GST for one year, with automatic renewal at $233.00 + GST every 52 weeks. Despite her success, Rybakina expressed her appreciation for the achievement, stating, "I feel that it’s going to be amazing to wake up knowing that you achieved such big things."

Rybakina, who turned 27 and is from Russia but represents Kazakhstan, has been on a roll since her first Grand Slam win in 2026. She has claimed two Grand Slam titles, including the U.S. Open, and defeated Sabalenka in both finals. The 28-year-old Belarusian, who had previously won the U.S. Open twice and made it to three straight finals, conceded that it would be tough to climb back to the top with Rybakina at her current level.

Rybakina's success began in December 2025 when she defeated Sabalenka for the WTA Finals title, followed by her victories at the Australian Open and French Open. She now holds a tour-high 49 victories, one behind Jessica Pegula for the top spot this year. Despite a foot injury during the Cincinnati Open, Rybakina remained focused on her game, saying, "I feel like this tournament was just kind of more stressful because I was playing for No. 1 one of the matches, and then, of course, this injury which happened the week before."

With only the French Open title left to complete a career Grand Slam, Rybakina remains determined, stating, "I hope success and some more wins." The rivalry between the two players remains intense, with Sabalenka leading the head-to-head record 10-8. However, Rybakina believes their matches are always tough and push each other to improve.