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Rybakina Claims US Open Title, Ends Sabalenka’s 20‑Match Streak

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Rybakina Claims US Open Title, Ends Sabalenka’s 20‑Match Streak
Photo: ELENA Rybakina of Kazakhstan celebrates with the US Open trophy after defeating Belarus’ Aryna Sabalenka in the final at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.—AFP

Elena Rybakina defeated Aryna Sabalenka 6‑4, 5‑7, 6‑2 in the US Open final on Saturday, earning her third Grand Slam title and the world No. 1 ranking. The Russian‑born Kazakh ended Sabalenka’s 20‑match winning streak at Flushing Meadows and denied the Belarusian a chance to win three consecutive New York titles. Rybakina, who was dealing with an ankle injury before the tournament, said she had not expected such a result. She added the US Open title to her Australian Open win earlier this year and her Wimbledon success in 2022. Rybakina collected the $5.5 million prize and the trophy from former champion Maria Sharapova. Sabalenka, who had a code violation after a high‑ball incident, expressed frustration but congratulated Rybakina. The match was played at Arthur Ashe Stadium, with Rybakina’s calm play and strong groundstrokes prevailing over Sabalenka’s aggression. The action will continue on Sunday with the men’s final between Ben Shelton and Alexander Zverev. In men’s doubles, Christian Harrison and Neal Skupski defeated Kevin Krawietz and Tim Puetz 6‑4, 7‑6(6).

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