Aryna Sabalenka arrived at the 2026 US Open carrying a dream that few tennis players ever get the chance to pursue: winning three consecutive US Open titles. After dominating New York for the previous two years, the Belarusian star stood just one victory away from joining an exclusive chapter of tennis history. But against Elena Rybakina in the final, that dream slipped away in a dramatic battle that left Sabalenka facing one of the most painful defeats of her career.
The final at Arthur Ashe Stadium on September 12 delivered everything fans expected from two of women’s tennis’ biggest stars. Rybakina claimed the opening set 6–4, but Sabalenka fought back with determination, winning the second set 7–5 and forcing a decider. However, Rybakina regained control in the third set, securing a 6–2 victory to claim her first US Open championship and third Grand Slam title. For Sabalenka, the result ended her hopes of becoming the first woman since Serena Williams to win the tournament three years in a row.
The disappointment became even more visible after the final. Sabalenka struggled to contain her emotions, smashing her racket and asking a nearby cameraman to move away. The moments quickly attracted attention across social media, as fans witnessed the frustration of a champion who had invested so much into defending her crown. In her post-match comments, Sabalenka acknowledged the difficulty of handling the pressure surrounding such an important opportunity.
Despite the heartbreaking loss, Sabalenka’s journey in New York remains part of an impressive chapter in her career. Her previous US Open victories had established her as a dominant force on the hard courts, and her attempt at a historic three-peat demonstrated the level of expectations surrounding her. This time, however, Rybakina’s powerful serving, aggressive play and composure proved decisive when the championship was on the line.
As Sabalenka leaves the US Open without the trophy, attention now turns to how she will respond to the disappointment. The loss does not erase her previous achievements, but it closes the door on a historic opportunity she had fought to protect. For Rybakina, the night marked a breakthrough in New York; for Sabalenka, it became a painful reminder of how quickly a Grand Slam dream can disappear—even when history is within reach. The question now is how Aryna Sabalenka will write the next chapter of her story.