Aryna Sabalenka Wins Maiden US Open Title After Beating Jessica Pegula

Aryna Sabalenka secured her first US Open title on Sunday, defeating the USA’s Jessica Pegula in straight sets at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The victory marks Sabalenka’s third career Grand Slam title.

In a gripping final on Saturday, world number two Sabalenka emerged victorious, 7-5, 7-5, against a determined Pegula. This win adds the US Open trophy to her Australian Open titles, making her the first woman since Angelique Kerber in 2016 to capture both hardcourt majors in the same season. Pegula mounted a strong challenge, recovering from a 0-3 deficit and saving a break point to lead 5-3 in the second set, but Sabalenka fought back to seal the match.

The 26-year-old Belarusian powered through the final, hitting 40 winners. Despite her initial struggles, Sabalenka quickly found her rhythm after Pegula broke her serve early in the match to lead 2-1. Sabalenka responded immediately, breaking back and then again to take a 4-2 lead.

A sold-out crowd of 23,000 fans, which included sports stars such as Olympic gold medallist Noah Lyles, NBA player Steph Curry, and former Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton, largely supported Pegula. Despite their cheers, Pegula was overwhelmed by Sabalenka’s relentless power and intensity, with Sabalenka’s roars echoing across the stadium under the closed roof.

Pegula, who had earlier defeated world number one Iga Świątek and come back from a set down to beat Karolina Muchova in the semi-finals, managed to stay in the match. From 2-5 down, she clawed her way back to 5-5, breaking Sabalenka’s serve as she attempted to close out the first set. However, after a marathon 12th game, Sabalenka finally converted her fifth set point to claim the opener, which lasted 60 minutes.

The second set saw a similar storyline. Sabalenka quickly jumped to a 3-0 lead, benefiting from Pegula’s double faults. Yet, Pegula once again fought back, taking a 5-3 lead before Sabalenka broke her serve in the 10th game. The Belarusian remained composed and ultimately clinched victory when Pegula sent a weary shot long, ending the match.

Sabalenka’s aggressive play was evident throughout, with 25 winners and 23 unforced errors in the first set alone, compared to Pegula’s 9 winners and 11 errors, highlighting their contrasting playing styles.

With this win, Sabalenka not only captures the US Open title but solidifies her status as a dominant force in women’s tennis.