Rybakina wins US Open to become new world number one

Elena Rybakina defeated Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 on Saturday to win the 2026 US Open women's singles title, securing her first championship at Flushing Meadows and her third Grand Slam crown. The victory, achieved at Arthur Ashe Stadium, also ensures the 27-year-old from Kazakhstan will become the new world number one on Monday, ending Sabalenka's 99-week reign at the top of the rankings. Rybakina, the second seed, controlled the opening set with powerful baseline hitting and precise serving, breaking Sabalenka once to take it 6-4. The top-seeded Sabalenka, the two-time defending champion, fought back in the second set, saving break points before converting her own opportunity late to win 7-5 and force a decider. The momentum shifted decisively in Rybakina's favor at the start of the third set. She broke Sabalenka early and consolidated for a 3-1 lead, then secured another break to move ahead 5-2. Serving for the championship, Rybakina closed out the match with an ace, sparking a subdued celebration as Sabalenka sat in her chair and smashed her racket. The win completes a remarkable season for Rybakina, who also defeated Sabalenka in the Australian Open final in January.