Aryna Sabalenka US Open Title Defence Starts with Victory 2026

Aryna Sabalenka's US Open title defence began with a confident 6-2, 6-4 victory over Camila Osorio, as the world No. 1 focused on staying in the moment. Sabalenka, who has not reached a final in four months, said she refuses to look back, whether the past holds success or failure.

Sabalenka's Mindset: Staying in the Present

“The good thing for me is not looking back no matter what, if it’s good or bad, because I feel a good result can also stop you from performing well because you’re basically focusing on the past,” Sabalenka explained. “I never look back. If I win the tournament or lose the tournament, today is a new day, and I have to stay in the moment.”

This forward-looking approach is crucial as Sabalenka faces pressure on her No. 1 ranking, with Elena Rybakina poised to overtake her. The Belarusian produced a professional performance, serving well and overpowering Osorio from the baseline.

Match Analysis: Dominant Serving and Aggressive Baseline Play

Sabalenka eased through the first set, breaking Osorio's serve twice. In the second set, she quickly rolled through the concluding three games to close out the match. “I had opportunities, I tried to step in,” she said. “She played great. She brought the fight, and she battled really well, and I just tried to stay as aggressive as possible.”

Osorio, ranked 83rd, fought valiantly but could not match Sabalenka's power. The match lasted just over an hour, with Sabalenka winning 78% of her first-serve points.

Key Stats from the Match

Biggest Upset of Day 2: Tsitsipas Defeats Fils

In another headline match, the Cincinnati Open champion Arthur Fils suffered a shock defeat to former world No. 3 Stefanos Tsitsipas. Fils, the 10th seed, lost 4-6, 7-6(3), 6-1, 6-4. Tsitsipas, unseeded, showcased his resilience and experience to advance.

Fils arrived in New York as a title contender in an open men's draw, but Tsitsipas's tactical variety proved decisive. The Greek player saved break points at crucial moments and dominated the third set.

Looking Ahead for Sabalenka

Sabalenka's next opponent will be determined after the first round concludes. She remains focused on her own game, acknowledging the challenges ahead. “Every match is a new challenge,” she said. “I just want to keep improving and stay aggressive.”

Key Takeaways from Day 2

• Sabalenka's straight-sets win keeps her title defence on track.
• Her mindset of staying present is central to her success.
• Elena Rybakina could take the No. 1 ranking if she goes deep.
• Tsitsipas's win over Fils is the biggest upset so far.
• Sabalenka's serve and baseline power were too much for Osorio.

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