A Statement Win on Ashe
Aryna Sabalenka opened her 2026 US Open campaign with a confident 6-2, 6-4 victory over Colombia's Camila Osorio on Arthur Ashe Stadium, signaling that the two-time defending champion is ready to chase history in New York. A third consecutive US Open title would place Sabalenka in elite company, making her only the third woman to achieve that feat in the Open era, following Serena Williams and Chris Evert. Sabalenka unleashed 32 winners across the match and, despite a slightly rocky second set where she landed just 48 percent of first serves and racked up 12 unforced errors, she stayed composed. She fended off three break points and delivered a decisive break at 4-4 before wrapping up the win in one hour and 28 minutes. Her next opponent will be Russian qualifier Polina Iatcenko.
Firing Back at the Noise
Off the court, Sabalenka was equally direct. After a difficult stretch following her Miami Open triumph in April, which included early exits at both the French Open and Wimbledon, critics had begun circling. The Belarusian powerhouse said she grew tired of what she called the negativity surrounding everything she does. She made clear she is leaning into her supporters and blocking out anyone rooting against her. The ranking picture adds extra pressure: her world number one position is under genuine threat, with Australian Open champion Elena Rybakina closing to within 434 points. Jessica Pegula and Coco Gauff are also in contention for the top spot with a title run. Sabalenka must win the tournament and hope Rybakina stumbles before the semifinals to preserve her 99-week reign at the top. TennisDraw users have been heavily backing Sabalenka to complete the three-peat, making her one of the most popular title picks heading into the fortnight.
