U.S. briefing

Sabalenka praises crowd support after US Open final loss to Rybakina

Elena Rybakina won the final in three sets, while Aryna Sabalenka said the crowd's backing left her feeling American.

Aryna Sabalenka holding a racket with both hands on a tennis court
Aryna Sabalenka holds her racket as a tennis ball approaches, with spectators behind her.

Aryna Sabalenka praised the support she received at Arthur Ashe Stadium after losing Saturday's US Open final to Elena Rybakina. Rybakina won 6-4, 5-7, 6-2, stopping Sabalenka's attempt to claim a third consecutive title at the tournament.

The crowd backed Sabalenka as she won the second set and continued supporting her when Rybakina took charge of the third. Sabalenka said the reception made her feel American, though she wished she could have rewarded that support with a victory. She said she could still take positives from her level of play.

Rybakina had secured the world No. 1 ranking before the final, with Sabalenka's 99 consecutive weeks at the top set to end Monday. Sabalenka said the ranking change would not alter the challenge posed by opponents and that she would keep working to improve her tennis.