The Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka claimed her first US Open title, overcoming Jessica Pegula in a thrilling final. The Belarusian second seed secured a 7-5, 7-5 victory, putting behind her the disappointment of losing last year’s final to Coco Gauff.
After smashing her racquet in frustration in 2023, Sabalenka found redemption in 2024, dropping to the floor in celebration after her hard-fought win. This victory marks Sabalenka’s third Grand Slam singles title, following her successful defense of the Australian Open earlier this year.
Her win over Pegula extends her unbeaten streak on hard courts in major tournaments to 14 matches. “I’m speechless right now. It’s always been a dream of mine, and finally I got this beautiful trophy,” Sabalenka said after the match.
Celebrating with her team, Sabalenka joked with her strength coach, who sported a replica of her tiger tattoo. She added, “If you’re really working hard and sacrificing everything for your dream, you’re going to get it one day.”
Jessica Pegula, playing in her first Grand Slam final, pushed Sabalenka to the limit, especially in the second set, where she led 5-3. However, Sabalenka’s resilience prevailed, sealing the victory in one hour and 53 minutes, earning her 2,000 ranking points and $3.6 million in prize money.
For Pegula, the wait for a first major title continues, despite the strong support from the Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd.
