Sabalenka rallies to reach US Open semi-finals
Aryna Sabalenka came from behind to defeat Linda Noskova 7-6 (7-1), 3-6, 7-6 (10-7) in the US Open quarter-finals. She trailed 4-2 in the third set and 2-0 in the tie-break before recovering. The win extends her winning streak at the tournament to 19 matches and keeps her world number one ranking alive.
Sabalenka's victory marks her 19th consecutive win at Flushing Meadows and makes her the first woman since Serena Williams in 2016 to reach six straight semi-finals there. She has never lost a quarter-final at this venue in six attempts, though this was only her second quarter-final win since March.
The match featured recurring serve struggles, including four double faults and missed break points, yet she clinched her 10th straight US Open tie-break. Her next opponent will be either Jessica Pegula or Emma Navarro, and she could lose the world number one spot if Elena Rybakina wins on Wednesday.
Sabalenka's resilience in this match could influence how younger players perceive mental fortitude in high-pressure Grand Slam settings. Her ability to recover from a 4-2 deficit in the deciding set may inspire fans and aspiring athletes, reinforcing the value of composure over raw power. Additionally, the ongoing battle for the world number one ranking could heighten viewership and media attention, as the outcome of Rybakina's match directly affects the top spot, potentially reshaping the narrative of the season's hard-court dominance.