While the rain poured outside Arthur Ashe Stadium, Aryna Sabalenka brought the real storm indoors as she defended her U.S Open title with a commanding 6–3, 7–6 victory over American Amanda Anisimova.

The Belarusian world No. 1 once again proved why she is the most feared power hitter in women’s tennis, striking 22 winners to Anisimova’s 13.

The 25,000-strong New York crowd, firmly behind local favorite Anisimova, witnessed a showcase of explosive ball-striking. Yet, it was Sabalenka’s blend of power and composure that made the difference. From the very first games, she imposed her will, refusing to let the atmosphere rattle her.

Road to Redemption in 2025

Sabalenka’s triumph in New York caps off a year of near-misses at the majors. After falling in the finals at the Australian Open and Roland Garros, and in the Wimbledon semifinal to Anisimova, she seized her last chance of the season to capture a Slam.

This U.S. Open win not only marks her 100th career singles victory at a major but also delivers her fourth Grand Slam title.

The victory came with a record-breaking $5 million winner’s prize, making it the richest payday in tournament history. But beyond the paycheck, the win cements Sabalenka’s place among the game’s greats and sets the stage for another dominant run in Australia, where she has lifted the trophy twice before.

Anisimova’s Courageous Fight

Anisimova, despite the defeat, can hold her head high. Just months removed from a humbling 6–0, 6–0 loss to Iga Światek in a major final, the American bounced back to defeat Światek and Naomi Osaka en route to the U.S. Open final. Against Sabalenka, she battled hard, pushing the second set to a tiebreak, but was ultimately outhit.

The Sabalenka Era

With her overwhelming serve, relentless aggression, and newfound composure in pressure moments, Aryna Sabalenka has risen to a new level. She leaves New York with history, momentum, and the aura of a player ready to dominate women’s tennis for years to come.

Simply put—it’s Sabalenka time.