World number one Aryna Sabalenka has won the US Open women’s title for the second year in a row, beating American Amanda Anisimova 6-3, 7-6(3) in Saturday’s final. This win gives the 27-year-old Belarusian her fourth Grand Slam title. She’s now the first woman to win back-to-back US Opens since Serena Williams did it between 2012 and 2014.
Sabalenka played smart and powerful tennis, keeping her mistakes low with only 15 unforced errors. Anisimova made 29. Both players are known for hitting the ball hard and serving fast.
After winning, Sabalenka fell to her knees in joy and hugged her team.
“I want to thank everyone who came to support me,” she said. “Wherever I play next, I want you in my box.”
Sabalenka has been motivated to succeed since her father passed away, aiming to make her family name part of tennis history.
Anisimova’s second Grand Slam final
This was only Anisimova’s second time in a Grand Slam final. The 24-year-old from New Jersey had strong support from the crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium but struggled to hold on to her early advantage.
“It’s been a great summer. Losing two finals in a row is hard,” she said, fighting back tears. She also lost badly in the Wimbledon final two months ago. “I didn’t fight hard enough for my dreams today.”
How the match went
The match started under a closed roof due to rain. Sabalenka had a nervous start, saving three break points in the first game. Anisimova broke her serve early but couldn’t hold the lead.
Sabalenka broke back in the sixth game and again in the eighth, finishing the first set with a strong serve. She also got an early break in the second set.
Anisimova fought hard and levelled the score in the sixth game, which excited the crowd. But she hit the ball into the net on break point in the seventh game, giving Sabalenka the lead again.
Sabalenka made a mistake to let Anisimova back in during the 10th game, but she took control in the tiebreak and won the match in strong fashion.
A memorable win
This was Sabalenka’s 100th Grand Slam match win. She celebrated in her usual way by playfully slapping her coach’s bald head, and praised Anisimova with kind words.
“I know this hurts, but trust me – when you win your first one, you’ll see it’s all worth it,” she told her opponent.
Sabalenka left the tournament smiling, with a bottle of champagne in hand, and five million dollars richer.
Anisimova’s comeback continues
Even though she lost, Anisimova will move up to world number four in the rankings. She’s had a strong return to tennis after taking an eight-month break last year to focus on her mental health.
“Aryna, you’re amazing,” said Anisimova. “I keep having to play against you, and I’m in awe of what you’ve done.”
