Elena Rybakina solidified her claim to the world No.1 ranking by defeating two‑time US Open champion Aryna Sabalenka in a thrilling final that delivered her first US Open trophy. The 27‑year‑old Kazakh, already assured of overtaking Sabalenka in the rankings next week, lifted the championship after a three‑set battle on the iconic Arthur Ashe Stadium, winning 6‑4, 5‑7, 6‑2. The match was billed as a clash of the sport's two top‑ranked players, and it lived up to the hype.
Rybakina entered the tournament with a lingering ankle injury that had raised doubts about her ability to compete at the highest level. Despite those concerns, she shrugged off the physical setback and added a US Open title to an already impressive résumé that includes an Australian Open triumph earlier in the year and a Wimbledon victory in 2022. In post‑match remarks to Sky Sports Tennis, Rybakina described the experience as "some magic happening" and reflected on the uncertainty that surrounded her preparation. "I was unlucky with the injury before the start of the tournament," she said.
"Day by day, my team stayed positive, and we never knew exactly how things would turn out. I'm incredibly happy and proud – it still feels unreal." Sabalenka, the defending champion and top seed, had been 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. The pressure proved too much; after the loss, she vented her frustration by smashing her racket and hurling a ball into the crowd, an emotional outburst she later explained as a way to release the disappointment of missing a historic milestone. The final itself showcased a blend of power, precision, and mental resilience.
Rybakina, dressed in a striking yellow‑and‑black ensemble reminiscent of a bee, unleashed aggressive groundstrokes that often landed with a sting. Sabalenka responded with her trademark big serves, holding steady in what was their third Grand Slam final encounter. The Belarusian seized an early break, capitalising on a Sabalenka double fault to go up 3‑2, and immediately after, Sabalenka received a code violation for throwing a ball into the stands.
Throughout the first set, Rybakina maintained a composed demeanor, steadily building a lead that culminated in a 6‑4 win. The second set saw Sabalenka rally, using a deft drop shot and a cross‑court backhand winner to level the match. She roared with excitement after a crucial backhand winner that secured the opening game of the third set. Yet Rybakina's quality resurfaced, and she surged ahead to a commanding 5‑2 advantage, eventually sealing the championship with a decisive break.
In the press conference, Sabalenka expressed disappointment but also admiration for Rybakina's performance. "I want to congratulate Elena on an incredible year and a well‑deserved result," she said. "I wish I could have performed a little better, but there will be next year." Former champions and commentators offered their perspectives. Martina Navratilova noted that Sabalenka was unaccustomed to being on the defensive, observing, "Usually we see Sabalenka dictating the play, but this time Rybakina turned the tables and forced her into a defensive posture." Marion Bartoli highlighted the significance of Rybakina's achievement, especially given her previous best at the US Open had been only a fourth‑round appearance.
"To come in with the weight of the No.1 ranking and still deliver a title is extraordinary," Bartoli said. She also pointed out that the only Grand Slam Rybakina has yet to claim is the French Open, leaving a career Grand Slam within reach.
Laura Robson praised the overall quality of the final, emphasizing Rybakina's unflappable focus despite the lack of crowd support and the intensity of Sabalenka's comeback attempts. "Both players hit the ball with incredible power and timing," Robson observed. "Rybakina's backhand was simply lights‑out from start to finish." Rybakina's victory marks her third Grand Slam title of 2026, adding to her Australian Open win earlier in the year and completing a rare feat of winning three of the four majors in a single season.
Her record now includes 41 top‑10 wins overall, 10 of them coming in 2026 alone, and a total of 49 victories for the year. Looking ahead, the Kazakh star will step into the No.1 ranking with confidence, while Sabalenka will regroup and aim to reclaim her position among the sport's elite. The US Open final will be remembered not only for the high‑quality tennis on display but also for the emotional narratives that underscored the match – a story of resilience, ambition, and the ever‑shifting dynamics at the summit of women's tennis.