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Aryna Sabalenka Kamilla Rakhimova match anticipation is building at the US Open after the top seed delivered one of the tournament’s most commanding performances. Sabalenka raced into the third round on Wednesday night, defeating Polina Iatcenko 6-1, 6-1 in only 53 minutes.
The victory was a powerful response from the two-time defending champion, who arrived in New York after a difficult stretch on tour. Sabalenka had lost in the fourth round at each of her previous three tournaments, raising questions about her form and her ability to mount another deep Grand Slam run.
Explosive Sabalenka powers through in 53 minutes
Sabalenka immediately seized control against Iatcenko, a qualifier competing in her first Grand Slam tournament. The Belarusian star combined heavy groundstrokes, precise serving and relentless court coverage to prevent her opponent from settling into the contest.
She won 15 of 16 points behind her first serve in the opening set and remained highly effective throughout the match. Sabalenka finished with 21 first-serve points won from 28 opportunities, while dropping just two games in total.
“Happy with the level I played today, happy with the focus and happy to be through this match,” Sabalenka said after the straightforward victory.
The result continued an impressive record against players who qualify for the main draw. Sabalenka improved to 16-0 against qualifiers and has not dropped a set in those matches. Through her first two rounds in New York, she has surrendered only eight games, one of the lowest totals of her career at this stage of a major tournament.
Aryna Sabalenka Kamilla Rakhimova match carries major stakes
Sabalenka’s next challenge will come against Kamilla Rakhimova. The upcoming Aryna Sabalenka Kamilla Rakhimova match gives the No. 1 seed another opportunity to demonstrate that her early-round momentum is real and that her title defense is gathering speed.
Sabalenka owns a 3-0 record against Rakhimova. Their most recent meeting came at the 2025 French Open, where Sabalenka won emphatically, 6-1, 6-0. However, the US Open presents a different environment, with hard courts, intense expectations and the pressure surrounding Sabalenka’s historic pursuit.
Rakhimova will enter the contest knowing that she faces one of the most powerful players in women’s tennis. To create an upset, she will likely need to extend rallies, limit free points and find ways to disrupt Sabalenka’s first-strike tennis.
Historic three-peat remains within reach
Sabalenka is attempting to become the first player since Serena Williams from 2012 through 2014 to win three consecutive US Open singles titles. Her first two performances have offered encouraging signs, particularly after a midseason period she described as challenging.
“I think I struggled a little bit in the middle of the season,” Sabalenka said. “I can definitely say that mentally I’m way stronger than I was in the middle of the season, and physically I also feel stronger.”
Her comments reflect a renewed sense of confidence. Although she still faces a demanding draw, the defending champion appears more comfortable with her movement, decision-making and serve. Those elements will be crucial as the competition becomes more intense.
Ranking pressure adds another storyline
The US Open is also important in the WTA rankings. Sabalenka arrived in New York in danger of losing the No. 1 position, and even winning the tournament may not be enough to guarantee that she remains at the top. The ranking situation adds another layer of pressure to every round.
For now, Sabalenka is focused on the immediate challenge. Her swift win over Iatcenko allowed her to conserve energy while sending a clear message to the rest of the field: the defending champion is playing with authority again.
The Aryna Sabalenka Kamilla Rakhimova match will test whether that resurgence continues. Sabalenka’s head-to-head advantage and recent form make her the clear favorite, but Rakhimova has earned her place in the third round and will have the chance to change the narrative.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Aryna Sabalenka Kamilla Rakhimova match?
The match is scheduled for the third round of the 2026 US Open. The exact start time depends on the tournament’s order of play and earlier results.
What was Sabalenka’s second-round score?
Sabalenka defeated Polina Iatcenko 6-1, 6-1 in 53 minutes.
What is Sabalenka’s record against Rakhimova?
Sabalenka leads their head-to-head series 3-0, including a dominant victory at the 2025 French Open.
What record is Sabalenka chasing?
She is trying to become the first player since Serena Williams to win three consecutive US Open singles titles.
