Elena Rybakina defeats Aryna Sabalenka to claim first U.S. Open title

Elena Rybakina overcame Aryna Sabalenka in a three-set final on Saturday to win her first U.S. Open title and ascend to the top of the women's rankings. The Kazakhstani-representing Russian-born player prevailed 6-4, 5-7, 6-2, ending Sabalenka's 19-match winning streak at the tournament.

Rybakina, who also captured the Australian Open earlier this year, said she had not expected such a result and noted she was managing a minor injury but felt everything aligned in her favor. > "It's tough to find words right now, honestly," she said.

Sabalenka, a two-time defending champion, acknowledged her performance fell short. > "I was just out there competing, trying to do my best with what I had today. Not good enough," she said.

The victory awarded Rybakina $5.5 million, the largest prize in Grand Slam history, while Sabalenka earned $2.8 million. With the win, Rybakina secured enough ranking points to replace Sabalenka as world No. 1 next week.

Statistically, Rybakina limited Sabalenka's serving opportunities and generated 12 break chances, converting three. The match marked the third Grand Slam final between the current world No. 1 and No. 2, the first in which the lower-seeded player prevailed.

Rybakina, 27, previously won Wimbledon in 2022 and now needs a French Open title to complete a career Grand Slam. Sabalenka, a Belarusian native, had aimed to become the first player since Serena Williams to win three consecutive U.S. Open titles.

Both finalists had split their season meetings, with Sabalenka leading their head-to-head 10-8 before the final. Rybakina expressed admiration for the tournament, noting her previous lack of deep runs at the event.

The win adds a third major title to Rybakina's résumé for the season, matching fellow tour leaders Mirra Andreeva and Sabalenka in total titles won this year.