US Open Update: Sabalenka Defends Her Title with Dominant Win
Aryna Sabalenka defeats Polina Kudermetova 7-6(4), 6-2 at the US Open, advancing to the third round where she'll face Leylah Fernandez in a rematch of their 2021 semi-final.
“I know if I'm able to bring my game and fight for every point, I'll have my chances...”
Aryna Sabalenka, the defending champion, advanced to the third round of the US Open with a 7-6(4), 6-2 victory over Polina Kudermetova. The match showcased Sabalenka's resilience as she overcame a shaky start to dominate the unseeded Russian player. This win marks another milestone in Sabalenka's impressive campaign, where she's already notched 95 Grand Slam match wins.
Aryna Sabalenka surges to the finish line! pic.twitter.com/KVcue7wFNP
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 28, 2025
Sabalenka's experience and skill played a significant role in her victory. Despite Kudermetova's strong serve, Sabalenka's powerful forehand and defensive prowess ultimately gave her the edge she needed to win. The Belarusian's determination to defend her title is evident, and she'll look to continue her winning streak in the tournament.
“The first set was super tight and super aggressive," Sabalenka said. “I felt like it was more about the serve and first shot. It was super quick.
“The second set felt much better on the return game. I'm really glad that I stayed strong in that first set.”
Aryna Sabalenka demonstrated her defensive prowess by saving four break points in the opening game, but ultimately lost her serve. However, she quickly regained her composure and asserted her dominance in the tiebreaker. A stunning cross-court winner gave her a 3-1 lead in the tiebreaker, showcasing her skill and precision under pressure.
Aryna picked up her 30th career singles win at the US Open on Wednesday night! pic.twitter.com/eS1NrYtBf3
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 28, 2025
World number 67 Polina Kudermetova's forehand error gifted Aryna Sabalenka the opening set, but the Russian quickly found herself facing an uphill battle in the second set. Kudermetova was broken early and struggled to regain her footing after aggravating a leg issue, which forced her to receive medical treatment.
After receiving treatment, Kudermetova fought hard to recover the break, but Sabalenka's composure ultimately paid off. Sabalenka took advantage of Kudermetova's mistakes, moving ahead 3-1 in the second set and setting herself up for a dominant win. Despite Kudermetova's efforts, Sabalenka's powerful game and strategic play secured her spot in the next round.
The writing was on the wall when Sabalenka won the next game and the Belarusian held firm from there to secure a meeting with 2021 runner-up Leylah Fernandez of Canada in a rematch of their semi-final meeting four years ago.
Sabalenka's Focus
Sabalenka emphasized her focus on the tournament, saying, “I know if I'm able to bring my game and fight for every point, I'll have my chances.” She's aware that her growth as a player and person has been significant since their last meeting. Sabalenka added that she'd rather not dwell on the past match, believing she's become a better player and person since then.
“All I try to do is focus on myself and bring the best fight possible every time I'm out here playing in front of you all,” she added.
Match Highlights:
- Final Score: Aryna Sabalenka wins 7-6(4), 6-2 against Polina Kudermetova
- Duration: 81 minutes
- Aces: Sabalenka served 5 aces in the match
- Unforced Errors: Kudermetova's unforced errors contributed to Sabalenka's victory
Upcoming Match
The match between Sabalenka and Fernandez is scheduled for August 29, 2025, at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York. Given Sabalenka's current form and world ranking, she's the favorite to win, with odds of 79.7% to Fernandez's 20.3%. The Belarusian has been dominant this season, with 56 wins and six titles, while Fernandez has struggled to reach the same heights.
It took nearly an hour, but Aryna Sabalenka takes the first set 7-6 in a tiebreak. pic.twitter.com/eoH6uFskqo
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 28, 2025
Sabalenka's Resilience:
Break Point Saves: Sabalenka saved four break points in the opening game, highlighting her ability to handle pressure.
Tiebreaker Winner: Her cross-court winner in the tiebreaker showcased her shot-making ability and mental toughness.
Set Win: Sabalenka ultimately won the tiebreaker 7-4, setting herself up for a strong chance to win the match.
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