World number one Aryna Sabalenka began her US Open campaign emphatically by defeating Camila Osorio 6-2, 6-4 in the opening round on Monday. The Belarusian star is pursuing a rare achievement of winning three consecutive US Open titles, a feat only Serena Williams and Chris Evert have accomplished in the professional era.
Sabalenka has faced challenges during the latter half of the season, failing to reach a final since her victories at Indian Wells and the Miami Open in March, where she completed the Sunshine Double. However, she appeared determined to reverse her fortunes with strong support from the crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Displaying aggressive play, Sabalenka unleashed 32 winners to secure her victory and advance to face Russian Polina Iatcenko in the second round. Reflecting on her performance, Sabalenka expressed satisfaction, saying, “I’m super happy with the level I played. I feel like this is one of my favourite stadiums, I really experienced the best emotions here on this stadium.”
Osorio struggled early, conceding a break after a double fault in the third game, one of five double faults she committed in the first set. Sabalenka quickly built a 4-1 lead by converting another break point with a precise backhand. Although the Colombian narrowed the gap to 4-2, she was unable to shift momentum, culminating in a frustrated moment where she threw her racket attempting to reach a drop shot.
The second set saw early breaks exchanged, but Sabalenka steadily wore down Osorio’s defense. She secured a crucial break in the ninth game and sealed the match with an unreturnable serve, celebrating the win with quiet composure.
In addition to her quest for a third straight US Open title, Sabalenka is also defending her position as world number one. Notably, three other players in the women’s main draw remain in contention to overtake her ranking during the tournament.
