In an electric atmosphere under the roof of Arthur Ashe Stadium, Belarusian star Aryna Sabalenka claimed her first US Open title, defeating American Jessica Pegula 7-5, 7-5 in a dramatic final. The win marked Sabalenka’s third career Grand Slam singles title and completed a journey of redemption after heartbreak in New York a year ago.
As Sabalenka fell to the ground in disbelief, her hands covering her face, the significance of the moment was unmistakable. She had finally reached the pinnacle in Flushing Meadows after two semifinal losses in 2021 and 2022, and a crushing defeat in the 2023 final to Coco Gauff. This year, Sabalenka’s mental fortitude and relentless power carried her through, making her the sixth woman in history to win the US Open after being a runner-up the previous year, a feat last achieved by Serena Williams in 2012.
Sabalenka’s victory also moved her into elite company among active WTA players, with three major titles to her name. Only Venus Williams (7), Iga Świątek (5), and Naomi Osaka (4) hold more in the current generation.
The match itself was a test of both skill and will, with both Sabalenka and Pegula showing flashes of brilliance at key moments. Sabalenka took command early, racing out to a 5-2 lead in the first set, but Pegula, playing in her first Grand Slam final, fought back to level the score at 5-all. In the critical moments, Sabalenka’s powerful groundstrokes and aggressive style won out, as she captured the first set 7-5 after a surge of five consecutive games.
The second set followed a similar pattern, with Sabalenka storming ahead 3-0 before Pegula mounted another comeback. The American responded with a five-game run of her own, igniting hopes of a deciding third set. However, serving at 5-4 and within sight of extending the match, Pegula faltered. Sabalenka broke back and went on to close out the second set 7-5, sealing the championship with poise.
For Pegula, it was a bittersweet end to a breakthrough tournament. She became the first American woman outside of the Williams sisters to reach the US Open final since Sloane Stephens in 2017, and her run included impressive victories over top-seeded players. Despite the loss, Pegula proved she belongs on the sport’s biggest stage, and her resilience in the face of Sabalenka’s power was a testament to her growth as a competitor.
For Sabalenka, this victory represents a culmination of years of hard work, perseverance, and refinement of her game. Known for her all-out power, she has developed a more balanced approach to handle high-pressure moments, as evidenced by her ability to turn the tide in tight situations against Pegula.
With her victory, Sabalenka not only cements her status as one of the premier players in the world but also positions herself as a strong contender for future major titles. At 26, she is entering her prime, and this triumph is likely to fuel her hunger for even more success. As the tennis world looks to the future, Sabalenka has become a defining figure in the sport’s next era, showcasing both grit and glamour on the grandest stages.
For Pegula, the loss is a stepping stone, a vital experience that could propel her to future Grand Slam glory. With her game improving and her confidence growing, she will undoubtedly continue to be a major force in the years to come.
But on this night in New York, it was Aryna Sabalenka who stood tallest, hoisting the trophy after a long and arduous journey to the summit.
