World number one Aryna Sabalenka retained her US Open crown after defeating American eighth seed Amanda Anisimova 6-3 7-6(3) in a thrilling women’s final on Saturday, cementing her status as the modern queen of the hardcourt.

The Belarusian, who has not missed a hardcourt Grand Slam final since 2022, secured her fourth major title and became the first woman to win back-to-back US Opens since Serena Williams, who claimed three straight between 2012 and 2014.

The clash between two of tennis’s biggest hitters came down to unforced errors, with Sabalenka limiting hers to 15 compared to Anisimova’s 29. She sealed victory with an unreturnable serve, falling to her knees in celebration before embracing her coaches in the stands.

“I want to thank everyone who came here, who flew in to be there in my box,” Sabalenka said joyfully. “I’m going to reach a lot more finals and I don’t care where you are in the world, I want you in my box.”

For Anisimova, playing in only her second major final, the defeat marked another heartbreaking moment. Backed by the partisan Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd, the New Jersey-born 24-year-old struggled to sustain momentum despite her efforts.

“It’s been a great summer, losing in two finals in a row is great but it’s also super hard,” said an emotional Anisimova, recalling her 6-0 6-0 Wimbledon final loss two months ago. “I didn’t fight hard enough for my dreams today.”

Faridah Abdulkadiri.(Arise News)