Aryna Sabalenkova is shrugging off her poor form and starting her US Open title defense in style

Aryna Sabalenkova launched her US Open title defense with a convincing win over Camila Osorio, but the world number one still has a lot to prove after a tough foray into New York. The top seed beat the Colombian 6-2, 6-4 in 87 minutes at Arthur Ashe Stadium to advance to the second round.

Sabalenková entered the tournament under unusual pressure. She has gone 17-7 since April and has suffered early exits in her last two hard-court tournaments, raising questions about whether she is ready to make another deep US Open run.

But Sabalenka knows how to find another level in New York. She is seeking her third consecutive US Open title, which was last accomplished by Serena Williams from 2012 to 2014.

When asked how she handles the pressure of defending her title and world number one, Sabalenka answered simply.

“I’m just trying to focus on myself. I’m enjoying my time in New York and I’m ready to do whatever it takes to win. I’m ready to fight. That’s basically it.”

SABALENKA SHOWS HER TEETH AGAINST OSORIO

Sabalenka immediately put Osorio under pressure, breaking serve to move 2-1 ahead before creating another break for a 4-1 advantage. Osorio was able to get one break back, but Sabalenka answered again with a break for 5-2 to close out the opening set after 40 minutes.

The second set was more balanced. Sabalenka immediately broke, but Osorio hit back to make it 1:1. The Colombian then threatened again, but Sabalenkova showed her composure as she saved two break points at 3-3, using a backhand and a forehand winner to escape.

At 5-4, Sabalenka finally created the necessary opening. Osorio’s backhand error gave her the break and the world number one served out the match without allowing the match to go to a deciding set.

She finished with four aces and converted three of five break points while winning 77 percent of her first serve points.

The win was Sabalenko’s 14th in a row at the US Open and 20th in her last 21 matches at Flushing Meadows.

It was also her 41st win of 2026, giving her the start she desperately needed. Sabalenkova will next face Polina Iatcenkova, who beat Mexico’s Renata Zarazua 4-6, 6-4, 7-6(7).

The pressure hasn’t gone away yet. No doubts about her form. But Sabalenka did the most important thing: she won. And if anyone can make it to the Grand Slam, it’s the woman who made New York her territory.

– The end

Issued by:

sabyasachi chowdhury

Published on:

31 Aug 2026 23:03 IST