Aryna Sabalenka entered the U.S. Open facing challenges and at risk of losing her No. 1 ranking. However, she now advances to the third round appearing well-prepared for a potential third consecutive victory. The top-seeded Sabalenka dominated Polina Iatcenko with a 6-1, 6-1 win in just 53 minutes on Wednesday night, showcasing a strong performance that suggests her recent struggles may be behind her.
Sabalenka expressed satisfaction with her performance, stating, “Happy with the level I played today, happy with the focus and happy to be through this match.” Meanwhile, inclement weather disrupted play on outside courts, with only matches under the roofs in Arthur Ashe Stadium and Louis Armstrong Stadium proceeding without interruption.
Carlos Alcaraz followed Sabalenka’s success with a 4-6, 6-0, 6-3, 6-2 victory over Jaime Faria. Jessica Pegula swiftly defeated Sofia Kenin 6-3, 6-1 in just 56 minutes. Ben Shelton and Daniil Medvedev also secured victories, with Medvedev briefly halting play to protest a decision by the chair umpire.
Sabalenka, aiming to achieve a rare three-peat at Flushing Meadows, acknowledged her recent struggles but emphasized feeling mentally and physically stronger. The first round extended into a fourth day due to weather delays, with players like Alex de Minaur and Paula Badosa adapting to the changing schedule.
Despite facing challenges, players like Rafael Jodar and Alex Michelsen persevered, while notable names such as Wimbledon champion Linda Noskova and runner-up Karolina Muchova advanced to the next round. The tournament saw exciting matchups and surprising upsets as players navigated through the competition.
