(Sports correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Aryna Sabalenka Defends US Open Title, Beats Amanda Anisimova in Straight Sets
NEW YORK: World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka successfully defended her US Open crown on Saturday, defeating American rival Amanda Anisimova in straight sets to secure the fourth Grand Slam title of her career.
The 27-year-old Belarusian powered to a 6-3, 7-6 (7/3) victory on Arthur Ashe Stadium, showcasing her dominance and cementing her status at the top of women’s tennis.
Redemption After Tough Season
Sabalenka entered the final under pressure, having lost the Australian Open and French Open finals earlier this year. Determined to turn things around, she showed resilience to overcome Anisimova, who had previously beaten her in six of their nine encounters.
“This win makes all the tough lessons worth it,” said Sabalenka. “To defend my title here is truly special.”
She also became the first woman since Serena Williams in 2014 to successfully defend the US Open title.
Match Highlights
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Sabalenka capitalised on five of six break points, punishing Anisimova’s inconsistent serve.
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She extended her tiebreak winning streak to 19, sealing the title in just over one hour and 30 minutes.
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Anisimova briefly led 3-2 in the first set but failed to consolidate her advantage, allowing Sabalenka to regain control.
Anisimova Struggles With Pressure
For Anisimova, the defeat marked a second consecutive Grand Slam final loss after falling to Iga Swiatek at Wimbledon in July.
The 24-year-old admitted she struggled under the pressure.
“I didn’t fight hard enough for my dreams today,” Anisimova said. “The closed roof lighting made it very tough for me to serve — I just couldn’t adjust.”
Despite moments of brilliance, including powerful groundstrokes that troubled Sabalenka, Anisimova couldn’t maintain consistency. Her faltering serve, including costly double faults, proved decisive.
Looking Ahead
While disappointed, Anisimova remained hopeful:
“Making it to another Grand Slam final is still special. I’ll keep working hard to give myself more chances in the future,” she said.
For Sabalenka, the triumph was a career-defining moment — a redemption after earlier heartbreaks this season and a clear statement of her dominance on the women’s circuit.
