Rybakina Claims First US Open Title

Elena Rybakina won the 2026 US Open women’s singles title. She beat Aryna Sabalenka in a close final. The Kazakh player won 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York.

This was Rybakina’s first US Open title. It was also her third Grand Slam crown. Earlier this year, she won the Australian Open. She beat Sabalenka in that final too.

Rybakina Takes Control Early

First, Rybakina started the match with confidence. Her powerful serve put Sabalenka under pressure. Her strong groundstrokes caused more problems.

As a result, Rybakina won the first set 6-4. Sabalenka struggled to find her rhythm. Meanwhile, Rybakina stayed calm. She also won several key points.

However, the defending champion did not give up. Sabalenka played better in the second set. She attacked more often. She also made Rybakina work harder.

Then, Sabalenka won the set 7-5. Therefore, the match was level at one set each. The title would now be decided in the third set.

Sabalenka Fights Back

The second set showed Sabalenka’s fighting spirit. First, she recovered after losing the opening set. Then, she began hitting with more power.

As a result, she regained control of many points. Her strong shots also pushed Rybakina back. Sabalenka looked more comfortable on court.

Still, Rybakina stayed calm. She did not lose confidence after dropping the set. Instead, she returned to her attacking game.

At 1-1 in sets, the match reached its biggest moment. Both players knew the third set was vital. Whoever found the better rhythm could win the title.

Rybakina Controls the Decider

In the third set, Rybakina played her best tennis. First, she broke Sabalenka’s serve. Then, she built a strong lead.

Moreover, her return game kept creating pressure. She earned 12 break-point chances. She converted three of them. Therefore, Sabalenka found it hard to settle.

Rybakina soon took full control. She stayed focused until the final point. Finally, she closed out the set 6-2.

The match lasted nearly two and a half hours. In the end, Rybakina secured a major victory. She showed great skill and strong mental strength.

A NEW WORLD NO. 1

The win also brings Rybakina another milestone. She will become the new world No. 1 when the rankings update.

She will replace Sabalenka at the top. Sabalenka had held the position for 99 weeks. Therefore, the final changed both the champion and the rankings.

Meanwhile, Sabalenka lost her chance to win a third straight US Open title. Rybakina, however, continued her rise. Her victory confirmed her place among the best players in women’s tennis.

Final result: Elena Rybakina defeated Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 to win the 2026 US Open women’s singles title.