Image Source: BBC
Sabalenka is under serious pressure in the US Open women’s singles final after Elena Rybakina produced a composed and powerful performance to take the opening set 6-4 in New York.
The match, played at Arthur Ashe Stadium on 12 September 2026, began as a high-profile contest between the tournament’s top two seeds. Aryna Sabalenka entered the final as the defending champion and was bidding to win a third consecutive US Open title, while second seed Rybakina was seeking another major trophy after beating Sabalenka in the Australian Open final in January.
Sabalenka stunned by Rybakina’s explosive start
Rybakina took the first set in 44 minutes, securing the only break of serve at 3-2. The breakthrough came after Sabalenka double-faulted, prompting a visible reaction from the defending champion and a code warning as she returned to her chair.
Although Sabalenka recovered to hold serve several times, Rybakina remained in control of the most important exchanges. Her clean ball-striking and precise placement repeatedly rushed the world number one, who struggled to find a consistent response from the baseline.
Rybakina then held her own serve to move ahead 4-2. Sabalenka saved a break point in the following game with an outstanding serve to Rybakina’s backhand and a forceful forehand, but the Kazakh player continued to dictate the tempo.
Powerful serving sets the tone
The first set was defined by short rallies, aggressive serving and fearless first-strike tennis. Former British number one Annabel Croft told BBC Radio 5 Live that the players had produced very few extended exchanges, with both relying heavily on their serves and immediate attacking shots.
Rybakina’s statistics were especially striking. She landed only 27% of her first serves during the set, yet lost just eight of 30 points on serve and did not face a single break point. That resilience allowed her to stay calm despite the unusually low first-serve percentage.
Sabalenka, meanwhile, had opportunities to apply pressure but could not convert them into a breakthrough. Rybakina saved three break points in the early stages of the set, using her height, reach and powerful delivery to escape a difficult service game.
What the first set means for Sabalenka
The opening set leaves Sabalenka needing to change the rhythm of the final quickly. Her opponent has looked remarkably controlled, committing only one unforced error across the first seven games according to BBC commentary. Rybakina’s calm body language has contrasted sharply with Sabalenka’s visible frustration.
Sabalenka is chasing a fifth Grand Slam singles title and a historic third straight championship in New York. Only two players in the Open era have previously achieved three consecutive US Open women’s singles titles, meaning the stakes are enormous for the Belarusian star.
There is also a major ranking consequence. Rybakina is set to replace Sabalenka as world number one on Monday regardless of the result. That means the final is not only about the trophy, but also about a significant shift at the top of women’s tennis.
- Rybakina leads Sabalenka 6-4 after the first set.
- The opening set lasted 44 minutes.
- Rybakina broke once and faced no break points.
- Sabalenka received a code warning after double-faulting and striking a ball in frustration.
- Rybakina will become world number one on Monday regardless of the final outcome.
Can the defending champion fight back?
Sabalenka’s best route back into the match will be to improve her first-strike accuracy while limiting the emotional swings that have interrupted her momentum. She remains one of the most dangerous power hitters on the women’s tour, and a stronger serving display could quickly change the contest.
Rybakina, however, has shown no signs of panic. Her ability to protect serve, absorb Sabalenka’s power and attack the baseline has given her a valuable advantage. The second set will test whether she can maintain that precision or whether the defending champion can launch another dramatic comeback.
As the players prepared for the next set, Sabalenka briefly left the court following the opening-set defeat. Rybakina’s impressive start has placed her within reach of a second major title, but the final remains far from decided.
FAQs about Sabalenka and the US Open final
Who won the first set between Sabalenka and Rybakina?
Elena Rybakina won the opening set 6-4 against Aryna Sabalenka.
How long did the first set last?
The first set lasted 44 minutes.
Did Rybakina face a break point?
No. Rybakina did not face a break point during the opening set.
What ranking change will follow the final?
Rybakina will replace Sabalenka as world number one on Monday regardless of who wins the final.
What record is Sabalenka chasing?
Sabalenka is bidding to win a third consecutive US Open title and a fifth Grand Slam singles championship.
