Elena Rybakina solidified her claim as the world’s top‑ranked player by defeating two‑time US Open champion Aryna Sabalenka in a thrilling final that handed her the tournament’s top prize in New York. The 27‑year‑old Kazakh, who entered the match as the underdog against the defending champion, produced a masterclass performance to win 6‑4, 5‑7, 6‑2 on the iconic Arthur Ashe Stadium court, thereby clinching her first US Open title and confirming her ascent to the No. 1 position in the WTA rankings.
Rybakina entered the tournament already on a remarkable run, having captured the Australian Open earlier in the year and previously triumphing at Wimbledon in 2022. An ankle injury that had loomed over her preparations threatened to derail her campaign before the first serve was even struck, but she managed the setback with a calm, methodical approach, allowing her to stay healthy enough to compete at the highest level throughout the fortnight.
The final itself featured all the hallmarks of a classic showdown between the sport’s two leading players. Sabalenka, the top seed and reigning champion, was aiming to become only the third woman in the Open era to achieve a New York three‑peat, joining legends Chris Evert and Serena Williams. Rybakina, dressed in a striking yellow‑and‑black ensemble that evoked the image of a bee, responded with aggressive groundstrokes and a fierce competitive spirit that kept the Belarusian on the back foot from the opening games. The first set unfolded with both players testing each other’s resolve.
Sabalenka’s powerful serve gave her early opportunities, but a double fault at 2‑2 handed Rybakina a break point, which she converted to take a 3‑2 lead. The Kazakh’s composure never wavered; she held her serve and built a modest advantage that she eventually turned into a 6‑4 set win. Sabalenka, visibly frustrated, received a code violation after she smashed a ball high into the stands, an early sign that the pressure was beginning to affect her temperament. The second set saw Sabalenka raise her level, employing a mix of deep drop shots and crisp backhand winners that briefly gave her a foothold.
At 4‑4, she managed to break Rybakina’s serve, forcing a decisive third set. However, the Kazakh’s resilience shone through. She regained her focus, tightened her grip on each rally, and after a brief dip in intensity midway through the set, she rebounded with a series of precise winners that restored her momentum.
In the final set, Rybakina’s quality proved decisive. She surged ahead to a 5‑2 lead, delivering a series of powerful forehands and a backhand that left Sabalenka scrambling. The Belarusian’s attempts to mount a comeback were thwarted by Rybakina’s relentless pressure and unyielding defense.
When the match point arrived, Rybakina sealed the victory, leaving Sabalenka without a major trophy for the season. Post‑match, Rybakina expressed amazement at her achievement. "Some magic is happening," she told Sky Sports Tennis. "I was unlucky with the injury before the tournament, but my team stayed positive and we took it day by day.
I still can’t believe we’re here. I’m super happy and very proud." She added that reaching No. 1 had been a goal, but winning the US Open in front of a packed stadium was a milestone she had long coveted. Sabalenka, visibly emotional, addressed the crowd and the media.
She apologized for her outburst, explaining that the disappointment of missing a three‑peat made it hard to control her emotions. "I just wanted to let it out," she said, describing how she smashed a racket and threw a ball into the stands as a way to release her frustration.
Commentators offered insights into the match dynamics. Former champion Martina Navratilova noted that Sabalenka is usually the aggressor, dictating play and forcing opponents onto the defensive.
This time, however, Rybakina turned the tables, applying constant pressure and forcing Sabalenka into unfamiliar territory. "It’s not that Sabalenka lost; Rybakina earned the win," Navratilova remarked, emphasizing the Kazakh’s tactical brilliance.
Former world No. 1 Marion Bartoli highlighted the significance of Rybakina’s achievement, pointing out that her previous best result at the US Open had been a fourth‑round appearance.
"To come in with the weight of the No. 1 ranking and still deliver a title is extraordinary," Bartoli said, praising Rybakina’s ability to rebound after a shaky second set and dominate the third.
Laura Robson, another former champion, praised both athletes for the quality of play. She observed that Rybakina’s backhand was "lights out" throughout the match, and that despite Sabalenka’s attempts to mount a comeback, the Kazakh never faltered.
With the victory, Rybakina added a third Grand Slam crown to her résumé, joining an elite group of players who have won three of the four majors in a single season. The only title that remains elusive for her is the French Open, which would complete a career Grand Slam. Her win also marked her 41st top‑10 victory of the year and her 49th overall win in 2026, underscoring a dominant season. Beyond the personal triumph, the match signaled a shift in the women’s game, with a new generation of power players challenging established stars.
Rybakina’s composure under pressure, combined with her aggressive shot‑making, suggests she will be a formidable opponent in the years to come. The US Open final, broadcast live on Sky Sports, attracted a global audience and reinforced the tournament’s reputation as a showcase for high‑stakes drama and elite athleticism. Fans can continue to follow Rybakina’s journey as she prepares for the upcoming season, where she will aim to defend her new title and pursue the missing French Open trophy, while Sabalenka will look to regroup and target a resurgence in the next Grand Slam events.