Aryna Sabalenka has written her name in tennis history once again. On Sunday night in New York, the World No. 1 powered her way to a second consecutive US Open title, becoming the first woman since Serena Williams in 2014 to defend the crown at Flushing Meadows.
The 27-year-old Belarusian defeated American Amanda Anisimova in a hard-hitting final that lasted just under two hours. With this win, Sabalenka captured her fourth career Grand Slam title, cementing her reputation as one of the most dominant players of her generation.
Sabalenka’s triumph in New York was more than just another victory; it was redemption. Earlier in the year, she suffered heartbreak in two Grand Slam finals losing the Australian Open to Madison Keys and the French Open to Coco Gauff. At Wimbledon, she was stunned in the semi-finals by Anisimova, the same opponent she faced in Sunday’s US Open final.
But in New York, Sabalenka showed remarkable mental toughness. She admitted after the match that she focused on controlling her emotions and staying calm under pressure. “Going into this final, I decided I would not let my emotions take over,” she told reporters. “I just wanted to fight for every point and trust my game.”
That focus paid off. From the opening set, Sabalenka dictated play with her trademark power and improved shot selection. Unlike earlier finals this year, she looked in complete control of her destiny.
The celebrations didn’t stop on the court. Less than 48 hours after lifting the trophy, Sabalenka was the star of a media tour across New York City. She appeared on The Today Show with fellow US Open champion Carlos Alcaraz and later made a surprise cameo on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.
Holding her trophy to loud cheers, Sabalenka beamed as she shared her love for competing in New York. “It was amazing,” she said. “I love playing here, and the experience was unforgettable.”
Her late-night appearance, alongside comedian Fred Armisen playing a “fake” Alcaraz, had fans buzzing on social media and reminded everyone that Sabalenka isn’t just a powerhouse on the court — she’s also becoming a global star.
With her second US Open title secured, the question now is: how far can Aryna Sabalenka go? At 27, she is entering what many consider the prime years for a tennis champion. She already has four Grand Slam trophies, the World No. 1 ranking, and a growing fanbase worldwide.
Her next stop will be the China Open in Beijing later this month, where she will once again be the favourite. If her New York performance is anything to go by, few will bet against her adding even more titles to her collection before the season ends.
For now, though, one thing is clear: Aryna Sabalenka is unstoppable.
