Elena Rybakina defeated Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 to win her first U.S. Open title on Saturday, marking a significant milestone in her career.
Rybakina's victory guarantees her the number one spot in the women's tennis world rankings next week, but more importantly, it gives her the U.S. Open title that Sabalenka had won the previous two years. This achievement is all the more impressive considering Rybakina was still recovering from an injury and was not expected to perform at this level.
In a post-match interview, Rybakina expressed her shock and gratitude for the win, saying "It's tough to find words right now, honestly. I don't expect nothing like this coming to this tournament." She acknowledged that her injury had been a challenge, but was pleased that everything had come together for her in the end.
Sabalenka, who was trying to become the first person since Serena Williams to win three consecutive U.S. Open titles, was gracious in defeat, saying "I really felt like home here and cannot wait to come back next year. I wish I could perform a little bit better, but I guess next year." Sabalenka had been on a 19-match winning streak at the U.S. Open, but was ultimately unable to overcome Rybakina's determination and skill.
Rybakina's win marks the third time since 2000 that the number two seed has won the U.S. Open women's title, with Serena Williams being the number one seed in the previous two instances. Rybakina, who was born in Russia but represents Kazakhstan, has now won two major titles, including her first major at Wimbledon in 2022.
NTC Report coverage is based on reporting from the original publisher.
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