In a cauldron of noise and against a crowd desperately cheering for her downfall, Aryna Sabalenka produced a championship performance of immense fortitude, defeating American Amanda Anisimova 6-3, 7-6 (3) to win the US Open. The World No. 1 not only battled a formidable opponent but also a fiercely partisan New York crowd, making her victory all the more impressive.
From the moment the players walked on court, it was clear that Sabalenka was the visiting villain against the home favorite. Every Anisimova winner was met with thunderous applause, while Sabalenka’s errors were celebrated with equal fervor. This challenging environment has caused even the most seasoned players to crumble, but Sabalenka remained steadfast.
The pressure reached its peak in the second set when Anisimova broke Sabalenka to level the score at 5-5, sending the stadium into a frenzy. It was a moment designed to break Sabalenka’s will. Instead, she drew on the difficult experiences of her past, using the energy to fuel her focus. She calmly held serve and then proceeded to dominate the tiebreak, silencing the arena with her clinical execution.
This victory was a masterclass in blocking out external pressures. Sabalenka proved that she could handle the most challenging circumstances imaginable—a Grand Slam final against a home opponent—and still execute her game at the highest level. It was a win that showcased not just her physical power, but her mental supremacy.