Rybakina Wins US Open, Claims No. 1 Ranking

Elena Rybakina defeated Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 to win the 2026 US Open women's singles title on September 13, securing her third Grand Slam championship and the world No. 1 ranking. The victory at Flushing Meadows completed a remarkable comeback from a foot injury that left her unable to walk without pain just weeks before the tournament. The 27-year-old Kazakhstani player overcame a two-time defending champion who was seeking an unprecedented third consecutive US Open title. Rybakina's composure proved decisive in a three-set final that tested both players, with Sabalenka showing visible frustration as the match progressed. Rybakina's triumph marks her third Grand Slam title, following Wimbledon in 2022 and the Australian Open earlier in 2026. She officially replaced Sabalenka at the top of the WTA rankings on September 14, becoming the first player representing Kazakhstan to reach the No. 1 position. Sabalenka had held the top ranking for 99 consecutive weeks. The victory was particularly impressive given Rybakina's injury concerns.