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Sabalenka reaches US Open quarterfinals, eyes third straight title

9/6/2026

17 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Sabalenka Reaches Quarterfinals

Aryna Sabalenka beat Taylor Townsend 6-4, 6-3 to reach US Open quarterfinals.
The victory leaves Sabalenka three wins from a third straight US Open title, a feat last achieved by Serena Williams.
Ben Shelton, the top-seeded U.S. man, advanced after a rain-delayed win despite 54 unforced errors.
Ten Americans reached the US Open round of 16, the most by the U.S. at a Grand Slam since 2002.

Summary

Sabalenka Needs Win

Sabalenka must win the US Open and see Rybakina lose before the semifinals to keep world No. 1.
Gauff and Pegula can reach No. 1 only by winning the US Open title themselves.
Sabalenka has held the top ranking for over 100 weeks, including a 99-week streak.
Rybakina leads live rankings, pressuring Sabalenka’s defense.
If Sabalenka loses, the No. 1 spot could shift to any of the three challengers.

History

Historical Context

In 2002 Serena Williams defeated sister Venus 6–4, 6–3 to claim her second US Open title and fourth major, completing the third leg of her first “Serena Slam” without dropping a set. That triumph marked a peak of American depth, a benchmark Sabalenka now eyes as she pursues a third straight US Open crown in 2024.

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Sabalenka Reaches Quarterfinals

Aryna Sabalenka beat Taylor Townsend 6-4, 6-3 to reach US Open quarterfinals.
The victory leaves Sabalenka three wins from a third straight US Open title, a feat last achieved by Serena Williams.
Ben Shelton, the top-seeded U.S. man, advanced after a rain-delayed win despite 54 unforced errors.
Ten Americans reached the US Open round of 16, the most by the U.S. at a Grand Slam since 2002.

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