The US Open women’s singles final is upon us, and it promises to be one of the most electrifying battles in recent memory. World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, the reigning champion, will face America’s Amanda Anisimova in what is being billed as a collision of raw power, fearless shot-making, and championship ambition.
For Sabalenka, this is a chance to defend her New York crown and stamp her authority as the most dominant force in women’s tennis today. For Anisimova, it’s the opportunity of a lifetime—a shot at her first Grand Slam title, in front of a home crowd, against the best in the world.
The Road to the Final
Sabalenka: The Relentless Defending Champion
Aryna Sabalenka has had to weather storms en route to her third consecutive US Open final. Her semifinal clash against Jessica Pegula tested her resilience, as she dropped the opening set before storming back to win in three, 4–6, 6–3, 6–4.
That victory epitomized Sabalenka’s growth: from a player once prone to emotional collapses to a champion who thrives in the fire. Her serve—often her most devastating weapon—was clutch in the big moments, and her forehand dictated rallies when it mattered most.
Sabalenka enters the final with a clear mission: not only to win back-to-back US Open titles but also to prove that her reign at No. 1 is no accident.
Anisimova: The American Dream Run
Amanda Anisimova’s path has been nothing short of inspirational. After years of battling injuries and inconsistency, the 23-year-old American is now playing the best tennis of her career.
Her semifinal win over Naomi Osaka was a statement: down a set and a break, she clawed back with fearless aggression, riding the energy of the New York crowd to a thrilling three-set triumph. That comeback embodied her fighting spirit and her belief that she belongs at the very top.
For Anisimova, this final is not just about chasing history—it’s about redemption. Once hailed as a teenage prodigy, she is now delivering on that promise on the grandest stage of them all.
Head-to-Head Record
Sabalenka and Anisimova have crossed paths several times, with Anisimova holding a slight edge in recent encounters. Most notably, the American stunned Sabalenka at Wimbledon earlier this year, showcasing her ability to absorb the Belarusian’s power and counterpunch with her own.
Overall, the rivalry is evenly balanced, but Sabalenka will come into the final with a chip on her shoulder, eager to avenge that grass-court defeat.
Keys to Victory
For Sabalenka
- First-Serve Efficiency: Sabalenka’s serve is her lifeline. If she lands a high percentage, it will blunt Anisimova’s aggressive return game.
- Controlled Aggression: She cannot afford to overhit. The balance between power and patience will be crucial.
- Mental Resilience: Staying calm under pressure—something she’s improved dramatically—will be vital in front of a partisan crowd.
For Anisimova
- Counterpunching Brilliance: She must use Sabalenka’s pace against her, redirecting shots and forcing errors.
- Variety in Play: Mixing in slices, drop shots, and changes of pace could disrupt Sabalenka’s rhythm.
- Crowd Energy: As the home player, feeding off the New York fans could provide the edge in tight moments.
Storylines to Watch
- Redemption Arc: Can Sabalenka avenge her Wimbledon defeat and assert dominance?
- A First for Anisimova: Will the young American capture her maiden Slam in her home country?
- Legacy at Stake: Sabalenka is aiming to become the first woman since Serena Williams to win back-to-back US Open titles.
Expert Pundit Prediction
Former world No. 1 and ESPN analyst Chris Evert offered her perspective ahead of the showdown:
“This match has all the ingredients of a classic. Anisimova is playing fearless tennis, and she knows she can beat Sabalenka—she’s done it before. But Sabalenka’s power, combined with her maturity and ability to close matches, makes her the favorite. If Aryna serves well, she’s incredibly hard to stop. Still, don’t underestimate the home crowd’s influence on Amanda.”
Evert predicts Sabalenka will edge the final in three sets: “It’s going to be tight, but Aryna has the experience to get it done.”
What a Win Would Mean
- For Sabalenka: A fifth Grand Slam title, back-to-back US Open victories, and cementing her reign as the undisputed queen of women’s tennis.
- For Anisimova: A breakthrough major title, validation of her long journey back to the top, and a career-defining moment in front of a home audience.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 US Open women’s final between Aryna Sabalenka and Amanda Anisimova is more than just a tennis match—it’s a story of power versus power, experience versus breakthrough, and legacy versus destiny.
Both players arrive with fire in their eyes and belief in their hearts. For Sabalenka, history beckons. For Anisimova, it’s the chance to fulfill a dream she’s carried since her teenage years.
Whatever the outcome, fans can expect fireworks on Arthur Ashe Stadium. And as pundits and fans alike are saying: this final has all the makings of a modern classic.
