Aryna Sabalenka wins US Open: In a thrilling US Open final on Saturday, Aryna Sabalenka claimed her third Grand Slam crown, defeating a determined Jessica Pegula in straight sets. The world number two triumphed 7-5, 7-5 in a rollercoaster match at Arthur Ashe Stadium, adding the New York title to her back-to-back Australian Open victories.
Sabalenka, 26, became the first woman since Angelique Kerber in 2016 to capture both hardcourt majors in the same season. The Belarusian showcased her power, smashing 40 winners to overcome Pegula’s relentless fightback. Pegula, who had defeated world number one Iga Swiatek and battled from a set down to beat Karolina Muchova in the semi-final, was no match for Sabalenka’s intensity.
Pegula’s Comeback Falls Short
Despite her early struggles, Sabalenka quickly regained control after a break by Pegula at 2-1, leveling the match and breaking again to lead 4-2. Pegula fought back from 0-3 and break point down in the second set to lead 5-3, but Sabalenka broke in the 10th game and held her nerve to seal the victory.
With a capacity crowd of 23,000 watching on, including sporting icons like Noah Lyles, Steph Curry, and Lewis Hamilton, the atmosphere was electric. Though most supported Pegula, Sabalenka’s powerful hitting and resilience ultimately prevailed. The victory marked a significant redemption for Sabalenka, who lost the 2023 US Open final to Pegula’s compatriot Coco Gauff.
Sabalenka’s relentless play was highlighted by 25 winners in the first set, contrasting with Pegula’s more measured approach. The second set mirrored the first, with Sabalenka overcoming a spirited comeback from Pegula to capture the US Open title. Pegula’s final shot sailed long, giving Sabalenka her third Grand Slam title and solidifying her place among the elite of women’s tennis.