Defending Champion Sabalenka Advances US Open Second Round

Defending US Open champion Aryna Sabalenka advanced to the second round after a challenging first set against Rebeka Masarova, ultimately winning 7-5, 6-1. Sabalenka, the world No. 1 and 2024 US Open winner, credited the Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd for their support during the tight first set, describing the atmosphere as amazing and expressing gratitude to the fans. She dominated the second set and completed the match in about 82 minutes, showcasing her control and form. Sabalenka will face Polina Kudermetova next, who progressed after her opponent withdrew. This victory continues Sabalenka's impressive major event streak, having not lost in a first round since the 2020 Australian Open, and adds to a stellar year including finals appearances at the Australian Open and Roland Garros. The American men’s players Taylor Fritz and Blake Shelton also advanced safely at the US Open alongside Sabalenka’s win.