Aryna Sabalenka Aims to Reclaim Form Ahead of US Open Title Defence
Two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka seeks to regain her winning form as she heads into the US Open, facing significant pressure to maintain her world number one ranking.
Aryna Sabalenka, the two-time defending champion of the US Open, is gearing up to defend her title amidst a challenging season. Following a remarkable start to the year, where she achieved the rare ‘Sunshine Double’ by winning both the Indian Wells and Miami tournaments, Sabalenka’s form has dipped significantly. With a win-loss record of 17-7 since her Miami triumph, she faces mounting pressure as the tournament approaches.
Sabalenka’s recent performances have raised concerns, particularly after early exits at the French Open and Wimbledon. She now enters the US Open with 2,000 ranking points to defend, as Kazakhstan’s Elena Rybakina trails closely behind her in the rankings. Sabalenka’s position as the world number one is at stake, and she must perform well to maintain her lead.
Despite her struggles, Sabalenka remains optimistic about her chances on the hard courts of Flushing Meadows. “Absolutely. These tough lessons are definitely going to make me way, way stronger and working even harder,” she stated, expressing her determination to bounce back.
Throughout her career, Sabalenka has secured four Grand Slam singles titles, including two at the US Open. However, her recent inconsistency has been a cause for concern, especially in matches where she has previously held leads. Notably, her defeat to 20-year-old Sara Bejlek in Cincinnati highlighted her mental struggles, as she failed to close out the match despite leading in both sets.
As Sabalenka prepares for the US Open, she is not only focused on her own performance but also on the competition. Rybakina, who defeated her in the Australian Open final earlier this year, could potentially overtake her as the world number one if Sabalenka does not secure the title. Rybakina’s fitness remains a question mark due to an ankle injury, adding another layer of intrigue to the tournament.
Other contenders include Jessica Pegula and Coco Gauff, both of whom have shown strong form leading into the tournament. Pegula, in particular, is looking to convert her consistent performances into a major title, while Gauff returns with newfound confidence after winning her first Grand Slam last year.
With the depth of talent in the women’s draw, the US Open promises to be an exciting event. Sabalenka’s journey will be closely watched as she aims to reclaim her dominant form and defend her title against a strong field of competitors.
Source: This original report was produced by WTGO Newsroom using verified reporting from BBC Sport.