Aryna Sabalenka claimed her first US Open title on Saturday, defeating American Jessica Pegula 7-5, 7-5 in a commanding performance at Arthur Ashe Stadium. This victory marks Sabalenka’s third Grand Slam title, following her two Australian Open wins.
The 26-year-old Belarusian, often referred to as “The Tiger” due to her powerful playing style and tiger tattoo, overcame past disappointments at Flushing Meadows, including two semi-final defeats and last year’s final loss to Coco Gauff.
Sabalenka’s win solidifies her position as a top contender in women’s tennis. While Iga Swiatek holds the world No. 1 ranking, Sabalenka’s performance suggests she may be favored in three of the four Grand Slams in 2025, with Swiatek still dominant at Roland Garros.
The match showcased Sabalenka’s improved mental fortitude and expanded skillset. She maintained composure even as Pegula rallied from a 3-0 deficit in the second set to lead 5-3. Sabalenka’s ability to change pace with slices, surprise drop shots, and net rushes proved crucial in securing the victory.
After the win, an emotional Sabalenka collapsed on the court, kissing the surface that had previously been the scene of near misses in her career. She also sent a kiss heavenward in memory of her father, who passed away in 2019.
“So many times I thought I was so close to getting a US Open title,” Sabalenka said during the trophy ceremony. “It has been a dream of mine and finally I get this trophy.”
Pegula, competing in her first Grand Slam final at age 30, acknowledged Sabalenka’s dominant performance: “She has been playing amazing hard court tennis. She can take the racket out of your hands. I’m glad I was able to fight back and give myself a chance, but in the end it wasn’t enough.”
The victory caps a challenging year for Sabalenka, which began with her Australian Open win but was marred by the death of her ex-boyfriend, Konstantin Koltsov, in March. A shoulder injury before Wimbledon provided an unexpected opportunity for emotional recovery, leading to her strong performance in New York.
Sabalenka’s coach, Jason Stacy, celebrated the win with a matching tiger tattoo on his scalp, continuing their tradition of unique victory celebrations.
This US Open triumph cements Sabalenka’s status as a major force in women’s tennis, with her power, improved consistency, and expanding skillset positioning her as a formidable competitor for future Grand Slam titles.
