Image Source: The Guardian
Rybakina tennis produced one of the strongest statements of the 2026 US Open on Monday, as Elena Rybakina swept aside Naomi Osaka 6-1, 6-4 to reach the quarter-finals. The second-seeded player delivered a powerful and controlled performance on Arthur Ashe Stadium, leaving Osaka with few opportunities to establish her rhythm.
The result continued a dramatic day nine in New York, where major names fell and emerging stars made breakthroughs. Rybakina’s victory was followed by Qinwen Zheng’s remarkable 7-5, 6-3 comeback against Iga Swiatek, while 21-year-old Alexander Blockx reached his first Grand Slam quarter-final after defeating Francisco Cerúndolo.
Rybakina Tennis Power overwhelms Osaka
From the opening games, Rybakina looked calm, aggressive and completely in control. Her deep groundstrokes repeatedly pushed Osaka behind the baseline, while her forehand created the kind of pace and angle that made it difficult for the Japanese former world No 1 to attack.
Rybakina broke early in the first set and quickly moved into a commanding 5-1 lead. Osaka struggled to match the consistency and depth coming from the other side of the net, and Rybakina closed out the set 6-1 with authority.
The second set offered Osaka a brief chance to recover, but Rybakina remained composed. She continued to serve effectively, returned with purpose and avoided the unforced errors that can sometimes affect her aggressive style. A pair of Osaka double faults helped Rybakina secure a crucial break, and the Kazakh player eventually served out the match at 6-4.
The contest ended with an ace, underlining the quality of Rybakina’s serving throughout the match. According to the Guardian’s live report, her combination of power, depth and patience proved too much for Osaka, who was unable to find enough variety to disrupt the second seed.
A major ranking opportunity for Elena Rybakina
Rybakina is not only chasing the US Open title. She is also firmly involved in the race to become the world No 1 player. After her victory, she acknowledged that the ranking is an important goal, saying that she wants the position because every leading player would want it.
Her route to the title has now become even more intriguing. Rybakina will face Zheng in the quarter-finals, setting up a high-powered meeting between two of the tournament’s most dangerous competitors. Rybakina brings a flat, explosive game, while Zheng has shown extraordinary resilience under pressure.
- Elena Rybakina defeated Naomi Osaka 6-1, 6-4.
- Rybakina advanced to the US Open quarter-finals.
- Her next opponent is Qinwen Zheng.
- Rybakina remains in contention for the world No 1 ranking.
Qinwen Zheng stages stunning Swiatek comeback
Zheng’s victory over Swiatek was arguably the day’s biggest surprise. The Chinese player fell 0-5 behind in the opening set, appearing to be on the verge of a damaging defeat. Instead, she produced a remarkable turnaround, winning seven of the next nine games to take the set 7-5.
Swiatek was unable to regain control in the second set. Zheng maintained her attacking intensity and finished the upset 7-5, 6-3. Her ability to recover from such a difficult position has added another unpredictable element to the women’s draw.
The quarter-final between Zheng and Rybakina now carries significant interest. Zheng has demonstrated that she can survive pressure and momentum swings, while Rybakina has looked increasingly dangerous as the tournament has progressed. The match could come down to whether Zheng can absorb Rybakina’s first-strike tennis and extend rallies on her own terms.
Blockx makes breakthrough in New York
There was also a memorable men’s result as Alexander Blockx defeated Francisco Cerúndolo 3-6, 6-4, 7-5, 7-5. The Belgian showed remarkable courage after experiencing sharp rib pain during the match.
Blockx received treatment and continued competing with a mixture of aggressive serving, clever net play and impressive composure. His victory secured a maiden Grand Slam quarter-final and represented a major breakthrough in his young career.
With Rybakina, Zheng and Blockx all advancing, day nine delivered a mixture of established excellence and unexpected drama. For Rybakina, however, the message was especially clear: her title challenge is gathering serious momentum.
Frequently asked questions
What was the score between Rybakina and Osaka?
Elena Rybakina defeated Naomi Osaka 6-1, 6-4 in the US Open fourth round.
Who will Rybakina play next?
Rybakina will face Qinwen Zheng in the quarter-finals.
Is Rybakina competing for the world No 1 ranking?
Yes. Rybakina remains in contention to become the world No 1 player, depending on her results and the outcomes involving other leading contenders.
How did Zheng beat Swiatek?
Zheng recovered from 0-5 down in the opening set and defeated Iga Swiatek 7-5, 6-3.
Who is Alexander Blockx?
Alexander Blockx is a 21-year-old Belgian player who reached his first Grand Slam quarter-final by defeating Francisco Cerúndolo.
