Aryna Sabalenka faces Elena Rybakina in the 2026 US Open final, knowing her 99-week reign as world number one is ending regardless of the outcome. Rybakina is assured of replacing Sabalenka at the top of the rankings after reaching the semi-finals, adding extra motivation for Sabalenka to end the year strongly. Sabalenka, the two-time defending champion, aims to become only the third woman in the Open era to win the US Open three years in a row.

Her recent victory over Jessica Pegula in the semi-finals showed renewed fire and freedom. Coach Anton Dubrov said losing the ranking has provided 'extra fuel' and a 'next chapter' to chase. Earlier struggles, including losses at the French Open and Cincinnati, revealed mental focus issues, but her team emphasized giving her space to find her form.

Rybakina overcame an ankle injury from Cincinnati to reach the final, proving her durability with wins over Zheng Qinwen and Coco Gauff. Former British number one Annabel Croft noted Sabalenka will be highly motivated, calling it 'red rag to a bull'.