Elena Rybakina solidified her position as the world number one by winning her first US Open title, defeating Aryna Sabalenka in a thrilling final on September 9, 2023. The match concluded with a score of 6-4, 5-7, 6-2, marking a significant achievement for Rybakina, who now sits atop the rankings.

Rybakina, 27, from Kazakhstan, was assured of the number one ranking regardless of the match outcome, but a victory undoubtedly enhanced her accomplishment. In contrast, Sabalenka, the two-time defending champion, aimed to become the third woman in the Open era to achieve a New York ‘three-peat’, following legends Chris Evert and Serena Williams.

Throughout the match, Rybakina displayed remarkable composure, contrasting with Sabalenka's visibly rattled demeanor. Key moments included:

• First Set: Sabalenka's double-fault led to the only break, allowing Rybakina to clinch the set.
• Second Set: Despite Rybakina's resilience, Sabalenka capitalized on a crucial opportunity to level the match.
• Third Set: Rybakina broke early and maintained control, eventually serving for the title amid some tension, including two double-faults.

Rybakina's victory not only earned her a $5.5 million winner’s cheque, the largest payout in grand slam history, but also a place in tennis history as she celebrated her third grand slam title.

In her post-match comments, Sabalenka expressed disappointment but congratulated Rybakina, acknowledging the difficulty of losing in such a high-stakes scenario. "It’s really tough to control your emotions when you lose in the final of the grand slam," she remarked, explaining her frustration at the end of the match.