Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
Aryna Sabalenka has begun her US Open title defence with a convincing win over Camila Osorio, but the world No.1 still has plenty to prove after a difficult run of form heading into New York. The top seed beat the Colombian 6-2, 6-4 in 87 minutes on Arthur Ashe Stadium to move into the second round.
Sabalenka entered the tournament under unusual pressure. She has endured a 17-7 record since April and suffered early exits in her last two hard-court tournaments, raising questions over whether she was ready to launch another deep US Open run.
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But Sabalenka knows how to find another level in New York. She is chasing a third consecutive US Open title, a feat last achieved by Serena Williams between 2012 and 2014.
Asked how she was handling the pressure of defending the title and the world No.1 ranking, Sabalenka kept her response simple.
“I’m trying to focus on myself. I’m enjoying my time in New York, and I’m ready to do whatever it takes to get the wins. I’m ready for the fight. Basically, that’s it.”
SABALENKA SHOWS HER TEETH AGAINST OSORIO
Sabalenka immediately put Osorio under pressure, breaking serve to move 2-1 ahead before producing another break to establish a 4-1 advantage. Osorio managed to claw one break back, but Sabalenka responded by breaking again at 5-2 and closed out the opening set after 40 minutes.
The second set was more competitive. Sabalenka broke immediately, but Osorio hit back to level at 1-1. The Colombian then threatened again, but Sabalenka showed her composure by saving two break points at 3-3, using backhand and forehand winners to escape.
At 5-4, Sabalenka finally created the opening she needed. Osorio’s backhand error handed her the break, and the world No.1 served out the match without allowing the contest to drift into a deciding set.
She finished with four aces and converted three of five break points, while winning 77 per cent of her first-serve points.
The victory was Sabalenka’s 14th consecutive at the US Open and her 20th win in her last 21 matches at Flushing Meadows.
It was also her 41st victory of 2026, giving her the start she desperately needed. Sabalenka will next face Polina Iatcenko, who defeated Mexico’s Renata Zarazua 4-6, 6-4, 7-6(7).
For now, the pressure has not disappeared. Neither have the doubts surrounding her form. But Sabalenka has done the most important thing: she has won. And if anyone can play their way into a Grand Slam, it is the woman who has made New York her territory.
– Ends
SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
