Elena Rybakina wins US Open and ascends to world No. 1

Elena Rybakina won her first US Open title by defeating Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 5-7, 6-2, a victory that propelled her to the world No. 1 ranking in the WTA. This win marks Rybakina’s third Grand Slam title and her second of the season.

Following the match, Sabalenka was fined $7,500 by tournament organizers for breaking two rackets during the final. The Belarusian player expressed that the outburst was a way to release the intense emotions of losing a Grand Slam final while attempting a third consecutive title. Her loss also ended a 99-week streak at the top of the WTA rankings.

While Rybakina celebrates her rise to the top, the tournament faced some criticism regarding organizational issues, including scheduling delays and facility concerns. Rybakina has indicated that while she is enjoying her current success, she is uncertain about playing professional tennis into her late thirties or forties.