New York, September 11, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Aryna Sabalenka admitted that losing the World No. 1 ranking to Elena Rybakina feels “a bit weird”, but said there is little she can do about it as she prepares to face her rival in the US Open 2026 final at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Sunday.
Sabalenka booked her place in a fourth US Open final by defeating Jessica Pegula 7-5, 6-2 in the semifinals. The two-time defending champion is now chasing a historic third consecutive title in New York.
Only Chris Evert and Serena Williams have won at least three successive US Open titles in the Open Era. Sabalenka can become the third player to achieve the feat if she beats Rybakina in the final.
Reflecting on the change at the top of the rankings, Sabalenka acknowledged the difficulty of reaching and maintaining the No. 1 position. She also accepted that her performances dipped during the middle part of the season.
“I really understand how tough it is to reach World No. 1. It was one of my goals. But right now, not much I can do. I didn’t really perform well in the middle of the season. Elena took it over and played really well. She took away the number one position. Not much I can do about that,” Sabalenka said at her post-match press conference.
The Belarusian said her immediate priority is to remain focused on her own game and suggested that she could eventually reclaim the top ranking.
“I can only focus on myself and stay in the moment and try to do my best right now. Just keep it tight, and maybe I will take it back from her,” she said.
Sabalenka added that it was unusual to perform strongly at a tournament and still lose the No. 1 ranking, but said the competitive nature of tennis is part of what makes the sport special.
“It does feel a bit weird that you can perform well at the tournament and still be taken away the No. 1 position. It’s okay. It’s sport. I love that. That’s the beauty of sport. Everyone chasing everyone. It’s all about little things you improve and get better at,” she said.
Looking ahead to the final, Sabalenka expects a demanding contest against Rybakina, particularly because of the Kazakh player’s powerful serve and improved baseline game.
“If it’s Elena, it’s going to be really tough. She’s a big server. She really improved over the years on the baseline game, so it’s going to be physically and mentally tough,” she said.
Sabalenka, however, insisted she is prepared for the challenge and will give everything in pursuit of the title.
“As I said, I’m ready for the fight. I’m ready to do everything to get the win,” she added.
FOLLOW NOW
