'I Wanted To Let Go Of All That Aggression': Aryna Sabalenka Explains Racket Smash After US Open Final Loss To Elena Rybakina | Video

Aryna Sabalenka discussed the moment she smashed her racket following her loss in the US Open 2026 final to Elena Rybakina. The incident occurred after she lost the match 6-4, 5-7, 6-2, preventing her from achieving a historic three-peat. Sabalenka, who had previously won the tournament in 2024 and 2025, aimed to become only the third woman in the Open Era to claim three consecutive US Open titles.

Upon losing the final, Sabalenka explained that she felt the need to release the intense emotions she was experiencing. She stated that holding her emotions inside would have made it impossible for her to perform on the court or communicate effectively afterward. "I would go not really nice over there. I wanted to let go of all that aggression and disappointment outside," she said.

The Belarusian tennis star had fought back after dropping the first set 6-4, but Rybakina managed to regain control and secure a 7-5 victory in the second set. In the final set, Rybakina further dominated, winning 6-2, to claim her maiden US Open title and end Sabalenka's pursuit of a three-peat.