NEW YORK: World number one Aryna Sabalenka overpowered Amanda Anisimova to retain her US Open crown on Saturday, sealing her fourth Grand Slam title.
The 27-year-old Belarusian delivered a 6-3, 7-6 (7/3) victory inside Arthur Ashe Stadium, extending her remarkable streak of 19 consecutive tiebreak wins. The triumph came as redemption after painful losses in the Australian and French Open finals earlier this year.
“It’s crazy, all those tough lessons were worth it for this one,” said Sabalenka, who became the first woman since Serena Williams in 2014 to defend the title. “I’m speechless right now.”
Anisimova, who had won six of their previous nine meetings, pushed hard in the second set but faltered on serve at key moments.
While Anisimova’s search for a maiden Slam continues, Sabalenka cemented her status as the dominant force in women’s tennis, powering through in one hour and 34 minutes. – AFP
