Elena Rybakina is the 2026 U.S. Open women’s champion!
The 27-year-old tennis star defeated Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 in the women’s singles final on Saturday (September 12) at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York City.
The victory caps off an incredible Grand Slam season for Elena, who also defeated Aryna in the Australian Open final back in January. She previously won Wimbledon in 2022.
Credit: Getty
Elena and Aryna have developed one of the biggest rivalries in women’s tennis, with Saturday’s match marking their 18th meeting at the senior level. Aryna entered the final with a narrow 10-7 advantage in their career head-to-head record.
Their history on the biggest stages includes Aryna defeating Elena in the 2023 Australian Open final before Elena got her revenge in Melbourne earlier this year.
Saturday’s victory also comes as Elena prepares to take over the world No. 1 ranking from Aryna on Monday, ending her rival’s 99-week run at the top.
Credit: Getty
Aryna, 28, was looking to win her third consecutive U.S. Open title after taking home the trophy in 2024 and 2025.
This marked Elena’s first U.S. Open final after never previously advancing beyond the fourth round. She now adds the trophy to a Grand Slam résumé that includes titles at Wimbledon and the Australian Open.
See more photos of Elena Rybakina celebrating her victory…
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