The victory was particularly significant as it halted Sabalenka’s impressive 20-match winning streak at Flushing Meadows. By denying the Belarusian a third consecutive New York title, Rybakina prevented her opponent from joining the elite company of Serena Williams and Chris Evert. Despite lingering concerns regarding an ankle injury that threatened her participation before the tournament, Rybakina displayed remarkable composure to secure the $5.5 million prize.
A Tactical Battle of Composure and Power
The match began with intense pressure from both sides, as the top two players in the world rankings traded heavy groundstrokes. Rybakina, sporting a distinctive yellow-and-black kit, applied early pressure that eventually forced a breakthrough. A double fault from Sabalenka in the fifth game handed the advantage to the Kazakh, who moved ahead 3-2. The frustration was palpable for the defending champion, who received a code violation for hitting a ball into the stands following the error.
While Sabalenka struggled to maintain her rhythm, Rybakina remained focused, holding her serve to close out the opening set. However, the momentum shifted in the second set as Rybakina experienced a brief dip in form. Sabalenka capitalized on the opportunity, utilizing precise drop shots and powerful backhand winners to level the match and force a deciding third set.
Rybakina Reclaims Control in Decider
The final set began with a tense opening game, which Sabalenka secured with a roar of defiance after a crucial backhand winner. Despite the pressure, Rybakina quickly regained her composure. Relying on the precision of her play, she surged to a commanding 5-2 lead in the decider. With the finish line in sight, she closed out the match, leaving her rival without a major title for the 2026 season.
The result confirms Rybakina’s dominance on the global stage this year. For Sabalenka, the loss brings an end to her reign in New York, while Rybakina continues her ascent, further establishing herself as the player to beat in women's tennis.
