Aryna Sabalenka struggled emotionally in the US Open 2026 final against Elena Rybakina, losing 6-4 5-7 6-2. The defeat marked the end of Sabalenka's 20-match winning streak at Flushing Meadows and handed Rybakina the world number one ranking after 99 weeks. Sabalenka, aiming for a third consecutive Grand Slam title, failed to win a major for the first time since 2022.

Her frustration was evident as she smashed two racquets and used an expletive toward a cameraperson post-match. Former British number one Annabel Croft suggested Sabalenka's negative body language in the first set contributed to her downfall. Despite holding a set and 4-1 lead against Diana Shnaider at the French Open, Sabalenka imploded, losing the final six games.

Earlier exits at Wimbledon and the Australian Open further highlighted a challenging season. Rybakina's composed performance contrasted sharply with Sabalenka's emotional volatility.