Aryna Sabalenka Clinches First US Open Title, Defeats Jessica Pegula in Straight Sets
New York: Aryna Sabalenka captured her maiden US Open crown on Saturday, defeating American Jessica Pegula 7-5, 7-5 in a thrilling final at Arthur Ashe Stadium to secure her third career Grand Slam title.
The world No. 2, who was runner-up in New York last year, displayed grit and composure to deny Pegula a maiden Slam win. After surviving momentum swings in both sets, Sabalenka closed out the contest in just under two hours, dropping to the court in celebration before lifting the trophy.
“This has always been my dream,” Sabalenka said. “So many times I came close, but finally I got this beautiful trophy.”
Pegula, the No. 6 seed, fought back bravely from 3-0 down in the second set to lead 5-3, but Sabalenka responded with four straight games to seal victory and the $3.6 million winner’s prize.
Sabalenka’s triumph adds to her back-to-back Australian Open titles (2023, 2024) and comes after an impressive run where she defeated five seeded players en route to the championship.
Pegula, earning $1.8 million as runner-up, was gracious in defeat. “Your time will come,” Sabalenka told her on court.