By Razeen Gutta
Aryna Sabalenka defeated Jessica Pegula 7-5, 7-5 at the Arthur Ashe Stadium to win her first ever US Open crown; overcoming the heartbreak of last year’s final defeat.
The 26-year-old was close to facing the same fate she did against Coco Gauff last year as US-born Pegula refused to give up.
It was written in the stars for the Belarusian, though, who picked up her second Grand Slam of 2024 and third overall as she added to her back-to-back Australian Open championships.
“I remember all those tough losses in the past here and it’s going to sound easy but never give up on your dream and just keep trying, keep working hard,” Sabalenka told the media post-match.
“I’m speechless right now. So many times I thought I was so close to get the US Open title. It has always been a dream of mine and finally I got this beautiful trophy.”
“I’m just super proud of myself. I’m super proud of my team as well.”
Jannik Sinner and Taylor Fritz will face-off in the men’s singles final late on Sunday, with Fritz hoping to become the first American man to win a major since Andy Roddick over two decades ago.
Pictured above: Aryna Sabalenka
Source: @species_x
