Full Breakdown
Rybakina Upsets Sabalenka to Capture 2026 US Open Title
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event – Rybakina Wins First US Open
On September 12, No. 2 seed Elena Rybakina defeated No. 1 seed Aryna Sabalenka in the women’s singles final at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Rybakina took the first set, Sabalenka answered in the second, and Rybakina closed in the third. Reported scores differ: 6-4, 7-5, 6-2 or 6-4, 5-7, 6-2.
Background & Context – A Rivalry at the Summit
The pair have met 18 times, Sabalenka leading 10-8 overall. Their rivalry intensified after Rybakina’s Australian Open win over Sabalenka earlier in the season. Heading into New York, Rybakina was ranked No. 2 and needed a semifinal appearance to claim world No. 1; Sabalenka was chasing a historic three-peat.
Data & Statistics
- Final score: 6-4, 7-5, 6-2 (or 6-4, 5-7, 6-2).
- Age: Rybakina 27; Sabalenka 28.
- Grand Slam titles: Rybakina’s third.
- Head-to-head: 10-8 Sabalenka overall; Rybakina leads 8-7 on hard courts.
- Ranking impact: Rybakina’s win secured world No. 1, ending Sabalenka’s 99-week reign.
- Historical note: First Kazakhstani player to reach No. 1.
Official Statements & Responses
Rybakina praised the crowd, noted an Achilles injury the week before, and credited Sabalenka for raising her level. Sabalenka described her play as below standards, admired the New York audience, and lamented missing a three-peat.
Criticism & Opposition
Former coach Brad Gilbert called Sabalenka’s racket-smashing “disrespectful” and questioned its impact on the sport’s decorum.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The only discrepancy is the second-set score (7-5 vs. 5-7). Official records are needed to confirm the exact figure.
Why It Matters – A Shift in Women’s Tennis
Rybakina’s triumph adds a third major and reshapes the WTA hierarchy. Her ascent to No. 1 marks the first time a Kazakhstani has held the top spot, highlighting the sport’s growing geographic diversity and ending Sabalenka’s bid for a three-peat.
What’s Next
Rybakina will defend titles in Ningbo and at the season-ending WTA Finals, and aims for the French Open to complete a career Grand Slam. Sabalenka must regain form and ranking points ahead of the 2027 season.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I don't know what future will bring, but it's always very difficult matches against Aryna, and I feel like we push each other to be better after such tough battles,” — Elena Rybakina
- “I wanted badly to go to the finals, and of course, I want to go all the way,” — Aryna Sabalenka
- “Took a deep breath, was trying to talk positive with myself and just told myself that I need to fight and try to show good tennis,” — Elena Rybakina