Elena Rybakina captured her first US Open title and third major championship, defeating defending champion Aryna Sabalenka in three sets to claim the championship. The match took place at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, New York, on September 12, 2026. Rybakina won 6-4, 5-7, 6-2. Rybakina’s victory marked her second major title of the year, following her win at the Australian Open earlier in 2026. She had already secured the world No. 1 ranking by reaching the semifinals of the tournament, after defeating Qinwen Zheng in the quarterfinals. The WTA said Rybakina will officially become world No. 1 when the new rankings are released on September 14. She will be the first player representing Kazakhstan to hold the top ranking.
Sabalenka had been aiming for a third consecutive US Open title, which would have made her the first player since Serena Williams to win three straight, according to the New York Daily News. However, Rybakina took control in the final set and won 6-2 after Sabalenka recovered from losing the opening set to take the second 7-5.
The Kazakhstan representative’s powerful serve and aggressive baseline play helped her win the first set, according to a report from The Free Press Journal. Sabalenka managed to win the second set 7-5, keeping her hopes alive for a three-peat. Rybakina’s composure and consistency in the final set proved decisive as she closed out the match with a 6-2 win.
This victory not only brought Rybakina her first US Open title but also ensured that she will officially become the world’s top-ranked player. It was a rematch of their Australian Open final from earlier in 2026, where Rybakina also emerged victorious. Reuters reported that Rybakina became only the third woman this century to win both the Australian Open and US Open in the same season.
Sabalenka’s loss ended her bid for a third straight US Open title and marked another setback in her season. Rybakina’s success has also translated into financial gains, with reported career prize money exceeding $29 million. She earned another $5.5 million for winning the US Open. The Associated Press reported that it was a record prize for the women’s champion. She has earned significant endorsement income from brands including Yonex, Lexus, Red Bull, and Fanatics.
Her latest triumph is likely to further increase her commercial appeal and overall net worth. Rybakina’s rise in the sport has been rapid, with her first Grand Slam title coming at Wimbledon in 2022.
Her performance in New York capped off a remarkable campaign that saw her dominate the WTA Tour and claim top honors. The match was filled with tension and high-level tennis, especially in the second set when Sabalenka fought back strongly.
Rybakina’s win was a result of her ability to stay focused under pressure and maintain consistency in key moments. She celebrated with hands raised after securing the championship point, marking a major milestone in her career.
Sabalenka, who had been a dominant force in recent years, will lose the world No. 1 ranking to Rybakina when the updated rankings are released. The match also highlighted Rybakina’s mental strength and tactical awareness, which helped her overcome a tough opponent in the final.
This latest title adds to her growing list of achievements and confirms her place among the elite players in women’s tennis. Rybakina’s performance at the US Open was a culmination of months of hard work and consistent results on tour.
Her victory brought her closer to achieving a career Grand Slam, with her third major title now secured. She now needs only the French Open to complete a career Grand Slam. The win also marked a turning point for Rybakina, as she solidified her position as one of the leading players in the sport.
She has now claimed titles at three Grand Slam events, Wimbledon, the Australian Open and the US Open, showcasing her versatility and dominance. Rybakina’s rise to world No. 1 is a testament to her dedication and skill in the sport.
Her match against Sabalenka was compelling and full of drama. The final set saw Rybakina take control with powerful shots and a strong serve that kept Sabalenka on the back foot. Sabalenka’s frustration was evident during the match, especially after she hit a ball into the crowd. Reuters reported that Sabalenka later acknowledged that the pressure of trying to win three consecutive US Open titles affected her emotions.
Despite her efforts, Sabalenka could not overcome Rybakina’s superior performance in the crucial moments of the match. Rybakina’s win was a reflection of her growth as a player and her ability to perform under pressure.
Her success at the US Open is likely to inspire more young players from Kazakhstan and beyond.
IMAGE: Elena Rybakina 9 July 2022 Peter Menzel CC2