Sabalenka Cruises Past Pegula Into U.S. Open Final

The victory marks Sabalenka’s third career grand slam singles title, following her success at the Australian Open earlier in the season, and makes her the first woman to sweep the hard court grand slams since Angelique Kerber in 2016.

Sabalenka Claims Hard Court Grand Slam Sweep in New York

The championship match tested both competitors on a heavy night in Arthur Ashe Stadium. Sabalenka held a set and a 3-0 lead before Pegula mounted a comeback to take a 5-3 advantage in the second set. Sabalenka responded by winning the final four games to close out the match in straight sets. “It’s always been a dream of mine. Finally, I got this beautiful trophy.”

Crowd Support and Emotional Milestone for the Champion

Reflecting on the atmosphere compared to previous years, Sabalenka noted a shift in how the New York crowd received her. The player felt strong support from the stands even while facing an American opponent. “I would say that this year, I felt so much love from the crowd,” Sabalenka said. The win also held deep personal significance. “Well, after I lost my father, it’s always been my goal to put our family name in the history of tennis,” she said.

Did you know?

Sabalenka’s victory makes her the first woman to win both hard-court grand slam tournaments in the same calendar year since Angelique Kerber accomplished the feat in 2016.

Pegula Reflects on Breakthrough Summer Run

For Jessica Pegula, the defeat concluded a remarkable North American hard court swing where she compiled a 15-2 record, with both losses coming against Sabalenka—first at the Cincinnati Open final and then in New York. Despite falling short of the title, the result elevates the 30-year-old American from No. 6 to No. 3 in the world rankings, matching her career high. “To be able to be standing here in my first grand slam final, and then coming off such a hot summer, I didn’t expect it,” Pegula said.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many grand slam singles titles does Aryna Sabalenka have?

Aryna Sabalenka has won three career grand slam singles titles, including her US Open victory and her back-to-back Australian Open titles.

What is Jessica Pegula’s new world ranking after the US Open?

Pegula rises from No. 6 to No. 3 in the world rankings following her run to the US Open final.

Who was the last woman to sweep the hard court grand slams before Sabalenka?

Angelique Kerber was the last woman to achieve the hard court grand slam sweep in 2016.

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Semifinal: No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka vs. No. 3 Jessica Pegula | Full Match Highlights | 2026 US Open

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