Elena Rybakina overcomes Aryna Sabalenka in US Open final

Elena Rybakina claimed the US Open title on Saturday after a 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 victory against Aryna Sabalenka at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The result ensures Sabalenka concludes 2026 without a Grand Slam title and will relinquish her position as world number one on Monday. Sabalenka held the top ranking for 99 consecutive weeks and 107 weeks total. Following the loss, the Belarusian player expressed that the defeat serves as motivation to improve her performance for the upcoming season. Rybakina had already secured the top ranking before the match began. Sabalenka, who previously won the Indian Wells-Miami double in March, acknowledged the support of the crowd during the final set. Despite the loss, she intends to continue her training and focus on competing for tournament titles next year.

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