Sabalenka aims to defend U.S. Open title as world No. 1

Aryna Sabalenka arrives at the U.S. Open as both the defending champion and the world No. 1, carrying the season’s mix of peaks and setbacks into the year’s final major. With the title defense looming, she faces the substantial pressure of trying to become the first woman to repeat as U.S. Open champion since Serena Williams, a feat that has proven elusive in a modern era of strong, rising contenders. After a year that has included two major finals and a string of deep runs across the majors, Sabalenka is determined to translate consistent form into Grand Slam success at Flushing Meadows.

This season has elevated Sabalenka to the sport’s forefront, but it has also reminded fans and analysts that securing a major remains a hurdle. She has reached the finals at the Australian Open and Roland Garros and made the Wimbledon semifinals, while collecting three titles overall, including prominent wins at Indian Wells and Madrid. Yet, she has not added a major to her collection this year, and losses in recent big events—most notably to American opponents at the last three Slams—have amplified scrutiny of her ability to convert pressure moments. The year has also tested her resilience,...