US Open 2026 results: Elena Rybakina replaces Aryna Sabalenka as women's world number one with win over Zheng Qinwen
bbc.com • • sports
Key Points:
- Elena Rybakina will become the new women's world number one after 99 weeks, replacing Aryna Sabalenka following her US Open quarter-final win over Zheng Qinwen.
- Rybakina is the first Kazakhstani player to top the WTA singles rankings and has been closely contesting Sabalenka's position throughout the season.
- Despite the ranking milestone, Rybakina emphasized that winning tournaments remains her primary goal rather than focusing solely on her ranking.
- The US Open semi-finals could feature a top-ranking showdown, with Rybakina set to face Coco Gauff or Mirra Andreeva, while Sabalenka plays Jessica Pegula.
- Rybakina's rise includes overcoming injury challenges and reuniting with coach Stefano Vukov, who was previously suspended but successfully appealed and resumed coaching her in 2025.
