Elena Rybakina claimed her third career Grand Slam title and secured the world No. 1 ranking by defeating Aryna Sabalenka in a three-set US Open final in New York, according to reports from Sky Sports, The Guardian, and the Women’s Tennis Association. Following her victory, Rybakina embarked on a media tour in New York before setting her sights on the upcoming WTA 1000 China Open.
US Open Final Victory and World No. 1 Ranking
Rybakina captured the US Open crown by overcoming Sabalenka in a dramatic final at Flushing Meadows, according to Sky Sports and The Guardian. The championship match required three sets, with Rybakina rebounding after dropping the second set. This victory marked her third career major title, following previous triumphs at Wimbledon and the Australian Open, and lifted her to the top of the WTA rankings.
To reach the final, Rybakina navigated a demanding draw that included three-set battles in the closing rounds. According to the WTA Tour, she came from a set down to defeat Zheng Qinwen in the quarterfinals—securing the No. 1 ranking during that match—and subsequently overcame Coco Gauff in another three-setter before facing Sabalenka.
Media Tour and Post-Tournament Schedule
Two days after her triumph, Rybakina made appearance rounds on morning television programs in New York, visiting the sets of NBC’s “Today” and “CBS Mornings,” according to the WTA. Carrying both the US Open trophy and the WTA Tour Driven by Mercedes-Benz World No. 1 trophy, she discussed the mental focus required during high-stakes moments.
“There’s so many thoughts coming through the head,” Rybakina told “CBS Mornings” regarding the tension of a major final. “But honestly, I’m sometimes trying to zone out and just focus on each movement I have to do. When it comes to my serve, for instance, I simply count internally because rhythm is entirely dependent on timing.”
Targeting the Career Grand Slam
With major titles secured in Melbourne, Wimbledon, and New York, Rybakina acknowledged that a career Grand Slam is now on her radar, according to the WTA. Winning all four major championships across different surfaces remains her next goal with her coaching team. Before the season concludes, Rybakina is scheduled to compete at the WTA 1000 China Open in Beijing, which begins on Sept. 30, and will look to defend her title at the year-end WTA Finals, where she is already the first player to qualify.
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