Elena Rybakina showcased her elite skills by defeating two-time champion Naomi Osaka 6-1, 6-4 at the US Open 2026, advancing to the quarter-finals and closing in on the coveted world number one ranking.

The second seed, Rybakina, faced off against the 13th seed Osaka on Louis Armstrong Stadium, demonstrating overwhelming control throughout the match. With this victory, Rybakina sets up a quarter-final clash against Zheng Qinwen from China.

Rybakina, who could ascend to the top ranking for the first time with a win in her next match—even if Aryna Sabalenka, the current world number one, defends her title—expressed her ambition:

Of course I want it, I don't know anyone who won't want this.

In a near-perfect performance, Rybakina dropped only four points on her serve, while Osaka struggled with pain in her leg. Rybakina's dominance was evident as she opened the match with a double break, sealing the first set in just 21 minutes.

Although Osaka showed resilience in the second set, she failed to convert her only break point, allowing Rybakina to regain control and secure the match in 66 minutes. Rybakina's stats were impressive, hitting 29 winners compared to Osaka's nine and sealing the match with her seventh ace.

Reflecting on her career, Osaka acknowledged the significance of her past wins but noted, "If I win another Grand Slam, it's not going to change my life." Her perspective highlights the evolution of her journey since her last major victory at the 2021 Australian Open.