Aryna Sabalenka started her US Open title defence with a straight-sets victory over Camila Osorio, winning 6-2 6-4 at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The two-time defending champion overcame a challenging second set to keep her bid for a historic third consecutive US Open singles title on track.
Sabalenka, who has experienced a dip in form since her strong start to the season, needed to avoid an early exit to remain in contention for the world number one ranking. After a dominant first set, she faced resistance from Osorio in the second, landing just 48% of her first serves and committing 12 unforced errors. However, Sabalenka managed to fend off three break points and secured the decisive break at 4-4 before serving out the match in one hour and 28 minutes.
Ranking implications and title race
With this win, Sabalenka continues to defend the 2,000 ranking points she earned by winning last year's US Open. Her lead at the top of the world rankings has narrowed, with Elena Rybakina now just 434 points behind. To extend her 99-week reign as world number one, Sabalenka must win the title and hope Rybakina does not reach the semi-finals. Jessica Pegula and Coco Gauff are also in contention for the top ranking if they secure the title in New York.
What comes next for Sabalenka
Sabalenka will face Russian qualifier Polina Iatcenko in the second round. A third consecutive US Open title would make her only the third woman in the Open era to achieve this feat, following Serena Williams and Chris Evert. However, with a strong field and her recent form, Sabalenka will need to raise her level to progress further in the tournament.
Other notable results
Elsewhere, Amanda Anisimova marked her 25th birthday with a 6-1 6-3 win over Ashlyn Krueger, while Iga Swiatek, seeded eighth, advanced with a 6-2 6-3 victory against Wang Xiyu. Wimbledon champion Linda Noskova and Karolina Muchova also progressed, but French Open finalist Maja Chwalinska was eliminated by Taylor Townsend.
