Queens, NY—In a thrilling conclusion to the 2024 US Open, Aryna Sabalenka, currently ranked World No. 2, secured her first US Open title by defeating American Jessica Pegula in a hard-fought final. The Belarusian star’s victory added another significant milestone to her impressive career and cemented her place as one of the sport’s most dominant players.
Sabalenka’s journey through the tournament was filled with intense battles, including several come-from-behind victories that showcased her resilience. Her powerful groundstrokes, aggressive play, and relentless energy helped her bulldoze through a competitive field, earning her a much-anticipated place in the final.
Against Pegula, Sabalenka delivered a performance of exceptional quality, demonstrating her trademark blend of power and finesse. While Pegula entered the match in strong form, having already dispatched several top players en route to the final, she struggled to match Sabalenka’s intensity and precision.
The final began with Pegula feeding off the crowd’s energy at Arthur Ashe Stadium, using her steady baseline game and sharp footwork to keep the match close. However, Sabalenka’s relentless pressure and superior service game made the difference as the match wore on.
After a closely contested opening set, Sabalenka’s explosive forehand and dominant serving pushed her into the lead. Pegula fought hard, but the American was unable to consistently hold off Sabalenka’s aggressive baseline attacks. Sabalenka eventually claimed the victory in straight sets, with the final scoreline demonstrating her superiority on the day.
This US Open title marks Sabalenka’s second Grand Slam championship of the year, following her Australian Open win in January. It also bolsters her reputation as a formidable competitor on the world stage, as she now moves closer to overtaking Iga Świątek for the World No. 1 ranking.
For Sabalenka, the victory is a culmination of years of hard work and perseverance. She has been a consistent presence at the top of the women’s game but often faced setbacks in previous Grand Slam tournaments. This triumph, however, marks a turning point, as Sabalenka now firmly positions herself among the sport’s elite.
Despite the loss, Jessica Pegula’s performance in reaching the US Open final was a significant achievement for the 29-year-old American. Known for her gritty baseline play and intelligent court sense, Pegula has had a breakout year, proving herself a formidable force in the women’s game.
The US Open final marked Pegula’s first appearance in a Grand Slam championship match, an accomplishment that solidifies her status as a top-tier competitor. While she fell short against Sabalenka, her strong performance throughout the tournament will likely serve as a foundation for future success.
Sabalenka’s victory at the US Open further tightens the race at the top of the WTA rankings. With Świątek and Sabalenka battling for the No. 1 spot, women’s tennis is entering a new era of exciting rivalries and high-stakes competition. Sabalenka’s win in New York solidifies her position as a player to watch as the 2024 season continues, and her sights will now shift to the remaining tournaments and the year-end WTA Finals.
For Pegula, the final represents a stepping stone in her pursuit of Grand Slam glory. Despite the loss, her performance in New York will likely provide valuable experience as she continues to challenge the top players on the biggest stages.
With this victory, Aryna Sabalenka has not only claimed her first US Open title but also demonstrated that she is a dominant force in women’s tennis, capable of adding many more Grand Slam titles to her already impressive resume.
