Overview
- Elena Rybakina defeated Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 in the US Open final on Saturday, Sept. 12, claiming the title that also guarantees her the WTA world No. 1 ranking when the standings update.
- Rybakina reached the final after overcoming a foot/ankle injury sustained at the Cincinnati Open that forced a week without hitting and had put her participation in doubt.
- Sabalenka, the two-time defending champion, reacted emotionally after the loss by smashing a racket and telling a cameraman to “f‑off,” then gave a teary runner-up speech and later explained the outburst in her post-match press conference.
- Their rivalry remains tight with Sabalenka still leading the head-to-head 10-8, but Rybakina has won the most consequential meetings this year, including the Australian Open and the US Open finals.
- Rybakina’s victory consolidates a dominant 2026 season and shifts the balance at the top of women’s tennis, while Sabalenka faces scrutiny about closing out big matches and will use a short break before resuming competition at the China Open.