WTA Aryna Sabalenka US Open 2026

Sabalenka imposes her rule and is already in the round of 16 after winning against Rajímova

Alex Diaz Vilar - 4 Sep 2026
Go to comments seciton
Source: Getty

Aryna Sabalenka defeats Kamilla Rakhimova 6-3 and 6-4 and remains strong in her title defense at the US Open. The reigning champion faced a match that was more challenging than the score might suggest. Rakhimova reached this round after pulling off one of the surprises in the early rounds by eliminating Barbora Krejcíková in the first round and subsequently dominating Oksana Selekhmeteva.

Sabalenka asserts her dominance from the start of the match

The Belarusian entered the court with the intention of making her mark from the early moments. Her power from the baseline was once again one of her main weapons and allowed her to take the initiative in rallies.

The world number one managed to open up a lead that allowed her to control the first set, ultimately winning it 6-3. Rakhimova tried to stay close on the scoreboard, but Sabalenka capitalized on her opportunities to take the lead. The second set was a more evenly matched affair. The Uzbek player raised her level and was able to compete for a good part of the set, forcing Sabalenka to stay focused. However, Aryna did not yield to the pressure.

Sabalenka maintained control of the match and closed the second set 6-4, thus sealing her qualification for the next round.

 

 

Sabalenka keeps the hope of a three-peat alive

Sabalenka arrived at this third round after having convincingly won her first two matches. In the second round, she defeated Russian Polina Latcenko 6-1 and 6-1, extending her spectacular winning streak in the tournament. The tournament's top seed continues her quest towards a major goal, which is to conquer the US Open for the third consecutive year and keep her aim of reigning again in Flushing Meadows. 

 

 

 

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Sabalenka impone su ley y ya está en octavos tras ganar a Rajímova