Sabalenka’s Frustration Boils Over After US Open Final Defeat

NEW YORK: Aryna Sabalenka’s hopes of completing a historic hat-trick of US Open women’s singles titles ended in disappointment on Saturday as Elena Rybakina defeated the defending champion 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 in a dramatic final.

Sabalenka, who was aiming to win her third consecutive US Open crown, struggled to contain her emotions after the three-set battle slipped away.

Rybakina secured the championship with a decisive final point, prompting Sabalenka to smash her racquet on court in frustration. The Belarusian later appeared to lose her temper again when a cameraperson attempted to capture her reaction following the defeat.

For Rybakina, the victory marked a memorable triumph on the biggest stage. She held her nerve in the deciding set to overcome Sabalenka and claim the US Open crown.

The result brought Sabalenka’s impressive run at Flushing Meadows to an end, while Rybakina celebrated a statement victory against the two-time defending champion.