World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka has dismissed concerns about her recent struggles as she prepares to begin her campaign for a historic third consecutive US Open championship in New York. The Belarusian enters Flushing Meadows as the two-time defending champion and remains determined to rediscover her best tennis on the biggest stage.
Sabalenka has endured a difficult period since winning the Miami Open earlier this year. She has failed to reach the semifinals at her last seven tournaments, including exits in the quarterfinals at the French Open and the fourth round at Wimbledon. She also suffered fourth-round defeats at the Canadian Open and Cincinnati Open this month.
Despite those results, the 28-year-old remains convinced that she can quickly turn things around. Sabalenka acknowledged that the recent stretch has not gone according to plan but believes the challenges have helped her develop mentally and will ultimately make her stronger.
Her 2026 season began impressively. She won the Brisbane title before reaching the Australian Open final, where she was beaten by Elena Rybakina. Sabalenka subsequently claimed Indian Wells and Miami, completing the Sunshine Double and establishing herself as one of the dominant players on hard courts.
New York has historically been one of Sabalenka's strongest venues. She captured her first US Open singles crown in 2024 and successfully defended it in 2025. She will begin this year's tournament against Camila Osorio as she attempts to extend her 13-match winning streak at the event.
A third consecutive US Open title would place Sabalenka alongside Serena Williams and Chris Evert as the only women in the Open Era to achieve the feat. The Belarusian has spoken openly about her admiration for both legends and admitted that joining them in the record books would be extremely meaningful.
Sabalenka's challenge will be substantial, with several major contenders arriving in New York in strong form. Coco Gauff recently won Cincinnati, while Iga Swiatek claimed the Toronto title, and Australian Open champion Rybakina remains a major threat.
Still, Sabalenka insists she is ready to move beyond her recent setbacks. With another Grand Slam opportunity in front of her, the world No. 1 believes the pressure and adversity she has faced could ultimately fuel another memorable run at Flushing Meadows.
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