Aryna Sabalenka, the Belarusian tennis star, has emphatically turned a corner in New York, shaking off the disappointment of past Grand Slam final losses with a dominant performance at the 2025 US Open. Sabalenka's victory over Amanda Anisimova in the final not only secured her second consecutive US Open title but also marked her fourth Grand Slam singles trophy. This win signifies a crucial mental breakthrough for Sabalenka, who has previously struggled to convert her immense talent into major titles on the biggest stages.
The path to this triumph was not without its challenges. In 2025, Sabalenka faced heartbreaking defeats in the Australian Open and French Open finals. At Wimbledon, Anisimova herself defeated Sabalenka. These losses raised questions about Sabalenka's ability to handle pressure in crucial moments and to capitalize on her powerful game. However, her performance at the US Open demonstrated a newfound composure and resilience.
In the US Open final, Sabalenka showcased her powerful baseline game and improved mental fortitude. Although she didn't always have her "A-game," she effectively managed the match, capitalizing on Anisimova's errors and maintaining control in key moments. Sabalenka's ability to adjust her strategy, pushing Anisimova behind the baseline and relying on her strong serve, proved pivotal in securing the win.
The final wasn't without its moments of tension. Serving for the championship at 5-4 in the second set, Sabalenka faltered, missing an overhead shot that allowed Anisimova to break back. However, unlike previous occasions where such a setback might have derailed her, Sabalenka regained her composure and dominated the tiebreaker, winning it 7-3. This victory not only highlighted her improved mental strength but also underscored her exceptional tie-break record, with this win marking her 19th consecutive tie-break victory.
Sabalenka's victory carries historical significance. She became the first woman since Serena Williams (2012-2014) to win back-to-back US Open titles. Moreover, this win marked her 100th career Grand Slam main-draw match victory. Her current Grand Slam record stands at an impressive 101-26. With four Grand Slam titles, including two at the Australian Open (2023, 2024) and two at the US Open (2024, 2025), Sabalenka has firmly established herself as a dominant force in women's tennis. She is currently ranked No. 1 in the world.
This US Open victory signifies more than just another title for Aryna Sabalenka. It represents a turning point in her career, demonstrating her ability to overcome past disappointments and perform at her best when it matters most. With her powerful game and newfound mental fortitude, Sabalenka is well-positioned to continue her reign at the top of women's tennis and add more Grand Slam titles to her name.
