Sabalenka Clinches Back-to-Back US Open Titles in 2025

In a powerful and emotionally charged performance, Aryna Sabalenka made tennis history by defending her title at the 2025 US Open, becoming the first woman since Serena Williams to achieve this feat. Her straight-sets victory over Amanda Anisimova not only added a fourth Grand Slam title to her name but also marked a turning point in a year filled with close calls and emotional challenges.

A Rare Title Defense at Flushing Meadows

Top-seeded Sabalenka defeated eighth-seeded Amanda Anisimova 6–3, 7–6 (7–3) in the women’s singles final at Arthur Ashe Stadium, sealing her second consecutive US Open crown. This win makes her the first woman since Serena Williams in 2014 to defend the US Open title, a rare feat in the modern women’s game.

Sabalenka’s record at the tournament now stands at an impressive 28–2 when winning the first set, underscoring her dominance on the New York hard courts. It also marked her 100th Grand Slam main-draw match win, a significant milestone in her professional journey.

Season of Setbacks Turned into Triumph

2025 had not been easy for Sabalenka. She reached the finals of both the Australian Open and Roland Garros, only to fall short. Many questioned whether she could finish the season without a major. But at Flushing Meadows, she silenced critics and fulfilled her promise.

Sabalenka acknowledged the emotional weight of this victory:
“This one felt like I had to overcome a lot. I’m super proud of myself,” she said after the final.

Her redemption arc—from heartbreak to victory—serves as a case study in perseverance and mental strength.

Anisimova’s Rise Despite Loss

Despite the defeat, Amanda Anisimova’s performance throughout the tournament solidified her resurgence. After reaching the Wimbledon final earlier this year, the American once again proved her credentials on the big stage. Her strong challenge against Sabalenka and consistent form this season are projected to elevate her into the Top 5 of the WTA rankings for the first time.

Anisimova entered the match with a 6–3 head-to-head lead over Sabalenka, including a win in their Wimbledon semifinal. Her ability to push the world No. 1 to a second-set tiebreak reflects her growing maturity and power on court.

Key Stats from the Final

• Scoreline: 6–3, 7–6 (7–3)
• Sabalenka’s Grand Slam Titles: 4 (Australian Open 2023, 2024; US Open 2024, 2025)
• 100th Grand Slam Match Win
• First woman since Serena to defend US Open title
• 27–2 record at US Open after winning the first set

Key Takeaways for Exam

• Back-to-back US Open champion—first since Serena Williams in 2014
• Fourth Grand Slam title, first of the 2025 season
• Marked her 100th career Grand Slam match win
• Demonstrated mental fortitude and growth through public reflection