Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus claimed her third Grand Slam title in a dramatic US Open final on Saturday, defeating U.S.A’s Jessica Pegula in a rollercoaster match. The world number two triumphed 7-5, 7-5, adding the US Open crown to her back-to-back Australian Open victories.
Sabalenka’s victory did not come easy, as Pegula, who fought valiantly, mounted a comeback in the second set after being down 0-3 and facing break point. Pegula surged ahead 5-3, but Sabalenka’s powerful play saw her regain control and clinch the title.
The 26-year-old from Belarus blasted 40 winners in the final, becoming the first woman since Angelique Kerber in 2016 to capture both hardcourt Grand Slam titles in the same season.
“I’m speechless. So many times I was close to the US Open title, and finally I got it,” said Sabalenka, reflecting on her past near-misses, including being a runner-up in 2022 and reaching the semifinals in 2021 and 2023. “Never give up on your dream. Work hard. I’m super proud of myself.”
Pegula, who had a strong North American summer hard court season with 15 wins out of 16 matches, including a title in Toronto and a runner-up finish to Sabalenka in Cincinnati, acknowledged her opponent’s dominance.
“I wish she would have at least let me get one set,” Pegula joked. “She’s one of the best in the world—super powerful and isn’t going to give you anything. I’m just glad I was able to stay in there and keep taking opportunities.”
The final was played in front of a packed Arthur Ashe Stadium with 23,000 spectators, including Olympic gold medalist Noah Lyles, NBA star Steph Curry, and former Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton. Despite the crowd largely supporting the American Pegula, Sabalenka’s relentless power eventually overwhelmed her opponent.
Pegula had knocked out world number one Iga Swiatek and battled through a tough semifinal against Karolina Muchova, but her efforts were not enough to overcome Sabalenka. Pegula fought back from 2-5 down in the first set to level at 5-5, but Sabalenka’s aggressive play eventually secured the set after a tense 12th game.
In the second set, Pegula again clawed her way back from a 0-3 deficit to lead 5-3. However, Sabalenka’s composure and hitting power saw her break back and seal the victory when Pegula sent a weary shot long.
Sabalenka’s win solidifies her status as one of the top players in women’s tennis, and she now looks ahead to continuing her dominance on the Grand Slam stage.
