Image Source: BBC
US Open results delivered a dramatic quarter-final classic as Aryna Sabalenka fought back from the brink to defeat Linda Noskova and keep her title defence alive. The defending champion recovered from a deciding-set deficit and a tense tie-break setback to win 7-6 (7-1), 3-6, 7-6 (10-7) in just under two and a half hours.
Sabalenka Produces a Stunning US Open Results Comeback
Sabalenka appeared in control early on, breaking Noskova’s opening service game and moving into a 5-2 lead. However, the Belarusian was unable to serve out the opening set, allowing the Wimbledon champion to force a tie-break.
Despite that setback, Sabalenka dominated the breaker 7-1. Her performance then became increasingly fragile in the second set, as double faults and missed break-point chances gave Noskova the opportunity to level the match.
Noskova broke in the sixth game after Sabalenka double-faulted at 30-40. Another break early in the deciding set left the top seed trailing 4-2, and the two-time defending champion looked close to surrendering her grip on the tournament.
Instead, Sabalenka responded with remarkable composure. She won three consecutive games to turn the momentum around, then held her nerve in the final tie-break after falling 2-0 behind. A fearless second-serve ace completed one of the most dramatic wins of the tournament.
Historic Milestones Add to the Drama
The victory was Sabalenka’s 19th consecutive US Open win. She has not lost at Flushing Meadows since the 2023 final and remains unbeaten in six US Open quarter-final appearances.
She also became the first woman since Serena Williams in 2016 to reach six successive semi-finals at the New York major. The achievement underlines Sabalenka’s exceptional consistency on the hard courts, even during a season in which her results had become less predictable.
Sabalenka’s latest success also marked her fourth consecutive US Open semi-final. She is now two wins away from completing a historic three-peat, although she acknowledged that there is still a long way to go before another championship celebration.
“I’m speechless right now,” Sabalenka said after the match. “I was pushing to the limit in this match, especially in the third set. I honestly thought that that’s it, the match is over, but probably that’s what helped me to feel loose and go after my shots.”
Ranking Battle Continues Alongside Title Defence
The latest US Open results also have major consequences for the world rankings. Sabalenka temporarily retained the number one position, but she will be overtaken regardless of her remaining results if world number two Elena Rybakina defeats Zheng Qinwen.
Sabalenka said she would be delighted to win a third straight US Open title even if Rybakina took over at the top of the rankings. Her priority now is clear: recover physically and prepare for another demanding semi-final.
- Sabalenka earned her 19th consecutive US Open victory.
- She reached a sixth successive semi-final at Flushing Meadows.
- The Belarusian came back from 4-2 down in the deciding set.
- She won the final tie-break 10-7 after trailing 2-0.
- Her next opponent will be Jessica Pegula or Emma Navarro.
Noskova’s Impressive Run Comes to an End
For Noskova, the defeat ended an outstanding run. The Czech player had won 11 consecutive singles matches at Grand Slam tournaments and showed considerable resilience throughout the quarter-final.
Noskova hit more winners than Sabalenka, made fewer unforced errors and saved seven of the nine break points she faced. Those statistics highlight how narrowly the match was decided, with Sabalenka’s experience and ability to perform under pressure ultimately proving decisive.
Noskova’s powerful performance confirms her growing status on the biggest stage. Although she missed out on a place in the last four, her run in New York is likely to strengthen her confidence for the rest of the season.
What Comes Next at the US Open?
Sabalenka will face either American third seed Jessica Pegula or compatriot Emma Navarro in the semi-finals. Both potential opponents would present a different challenge, with Pegula bringing consistency and home support, while Navarro offers movement, variety and an increasingly confident hard-court game.
The defending champion will hope her latest escape provides another boost of energy. After early exits in Toronto and Cincinnati, Sabalenka has rediscovered the belief and fighting spirit that helped her dominate the US Open over the past two seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the result of Sabalenka’s US Open quarter-final?
Aryna Sabalenka defeated Linda Noskova 7-6 (7-1), 3-6, 7-6 (10-7) in a match lasting just under two and a half hours.
How many consecutive US Open matches has Sabalenka won?
Sabalenka has now won 19 consecutive matches at the US Open. Her last defeat at the tournament came in the 2023 final.
Who will Sabalenka play in the semi-final?
She will meet either Jessica Pegula or Emma Navarro, depending on the result of their quarter-final.
Can Sabalenka remain world number one?
Sabalenka temporarily remains at number one, but Elena Rybakina will overtake her if she defeats Zheng Qinwen.