Aryna Sabalenka defeats American Pegula to capture 1st-ever U.S. Open title

Aryna Sabalenka left the U.S. Open in tears 12 months ago as the runner-up. She exited in the semifinals each of the two years before that. This time, Sabalenka was in a joking mood after winning her first championship at Flushing Meadows and the third Grand Slam title of her career.

Aryna Sabalenka defeats American Pegula to capture 1st-ever U.S. Open title
Belarus tennis player kisses the trophy after winning the women's singles final of the U.S. Open tennis championships against Jessica Pegula, of the United States Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024, in New York.

Aryna Sabalenka left the U.S. Open in tears 12 months ago as the runner-up. She exited in the semifinals each of the two years before that. This time, Sabalenka was in a joking mood after winning her first championship at Flushing Meadows and the third Grand Slam title of her career.