Aryna Sabalenka began her US Open title defence with a 6-2, 6-4 victory over Camila Osorio, extending her winning streak in New York to 14 matches and keeping her World No. 1 ranking hopes firmly on track.
Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka made a winning start to her US Open title defence, defeating Colombia’s Camila Osorio 6-2, 6-4 in the opening round at Flushing Meadows. The World No. 1 overcame an inconsistent beginning and several tense moments to secure victory in one hour and 27 minutes.
The result extended Sabalenka’s impressive record at the US Open, giving her a 14th consecutive victory at the tournament. It also marked her 24th straight first-round victory at a Grand Slam, underlining the Belarusian star’s consistency when beginning major tournaments.
Sabalenka arrived in New York facing significant pressure after a challenging period on the WTA Tour. She has not reached a final since completing the Sunshine Double in March, while several defeats from winning positions have raised questions about her confidence and recent form.
Her position at the summit of the WTA rankings is another major storyline surrounding her title defence. Sabalenka needs to successfully defend her US Open crown to guarantee that she remains the World No. 1 at the end of the tournament.
Against Osorio, ranked 59th in the world, Sabalenka relied on her powerful groundstrokes to overcome an opponent capable of disrupting her rhythm. She finished the match with 32 winners, although her aggressive approach also produced 23 unforced errors and four double faults.
The opening set was dominated by breaks of serve. The first three games all went against the server, but Osorio experienced particular difficulties on her delivery. The Colombian produced five double faults during her opening two service games, allowing Sabalenka to take advantage and gradually establish control.
Sabalenka eventually secured the first set 6-2, but the second set presented a much tougher challenge. The defending champion broke early but immediately handed the advantage back as Osorio began to play with greater confidence.
The Colombian used a varied approach to unsettle Sabalenka, mixing powerful shots with trips to the net, drop shots and a well-timed lob. Her tactical changes made the contest increasingly competitive and forced Sabalenka to remain focused during crucial points.
Osorio created a major opportunity at 3-2 when she earned two break points. A successful conversion would have put the World No. 1 under considerable pressure, but Sabalenka held firm, saving both chances before holding serve.
The match remained level at 4-4, with both players battling to gain the decisive advantage. Osorio’s ninth double fault of the match then proved costly. Sabalenka immediately capitalised, breaking serve to move within one game of victory.
The defending champion kept her composure in the final game and served out the match. She sealed the victory on her second match point with a service winner, completing a straight-sets win and moving into the second round.
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Sabalenka will next meet 22-year-old qualifier Polina Iatcenko. The Russian secured her first Grand Slam main-draw victory by producing a remarkable 4-6, 6-4, 7-6[7] comeback against Renata Zarazua in a marathon contest lasting three hours and 27 minutes.
With her opening-round hurdle cleared, Sabalenka will now look to build momentum as she continues her bid to retain the US Open championship and protect her position at the top of the women’s rankings.
