World No. 1
Sabalenka, who is aiming to become the first player to secure three consecutive US Open titles since Serena Williams achieved the feat between 2012 and 2014, defeated Kamilla Rakhimova 6-3, 6-4. While the top seed maintained control, she faced significant pressure during a second set that spanned 54 minutes—a duration longer than her entire second-round encounter. Sabalenka acknowledged the difficulty of the match, noting that her opponent played incredible tennis and forced her to elevate her own performance.
Pegula Rallies as Tournament Favorites Advance
Jessica Pegula faced a more precarious situation in her match against 2021 runner-up Leylah Fernandez. After a difficult start where she struggled to find her rhythm on serve, Pegula dropped the opening set 1-6. However, the American managed to turn the momentum, rallying to win the subsequent sets 6-4, 6-3. Reflecting on the match, Pegula admitted that her start was poor and that she had to dig deep to prevent the match from slipping away.
The victory sets up a fourth-round clash for Pegula against Sorana Cirstea. The 36-year-old Romanian, who has hinted at retirement following the conclusion of this season, earned her place in the next round by defeating No. 19 seed Jasmine Paolini 6-3, 6-3. Meanwhile, Sabalenka is set to face
In other developments at the US Open, the spotlight also turned to doubles action as Serena and Venus Williams were scheduled to compete in a first-round match against Hao-Ching Chan and Maya Joint. This appearance marks Serena Williams' return to the US Open for the first time since 2022.
