New York, August 25, 2025 — Defending champion and world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka began her 2025 US Open campaign in style, overcoming early jitters before surging to a 7–5, 6–1 victory over Switzerland’s Rebeka Masarova on Arthur Ashe Stadium.
The Belarusian, who lifted her maiden US Open trophy last year, was briefly tested in the opening set. Masarova broke early and threatened to silence the pro-Sabalenka crowd. But once the defending champion found her rhythm, the balance shifted firmly in her favor.
“Honestly, I had goosebumps,” Sabalenka admitted after the match. “When I won that set point and heard the crowd cheering for me, it gave me so much energy. It’s always special to play in New York because the atmosphere is amazing.”
A Nervy Start, Then Total Control
Masarova, ranked outside the top 50, capitalized on Sabalenka’s misfiring serve early on. The world No. 1 racked up uncharacteristic errors and looked unsettled, trailing 3–4 before mounting her comeback.
At 5–5, Sabalenka raised her level, striking winners with trademark ferocity. She sealed the set 7–5 and never looked back. The second set was a masterclass in controlled aggression: 16 winners to just 6 unforced errors, and only one game conceded.
By the end, Sabalenka looked every bit the reigning champion—confident, dominant, and ruthless.
Chasing History
The win marked Sabalenka’s eighth consecutive first-round success at Flushing Meadows. More impressively, it pushed her to 25 US Open match wins since 2020, equalling Daniil Medvedev for the most in that span across both tours.
The stakes in 2025 are high. No woman has successfully defended a US Open crown since Serena Williams in 2014. Sabalenka, already the face of power tennis, now has the chance to etch her name alongside the legends by breaking that decade-long streak.
“I don’t like to think too far ahead,” Sabalenka said when asked about making history. “It’s about focusing on each match, each point. That’s what helped me last year, and that’s what I’ll keep doing this year.”
What’s Next
In the second round, Sabalenka will meet Polina Kudermetova, a familiar opponent she defeated in Dubai earlier this season. While the Russian brings a mix of steady baseline play and tactical variety, few would bet against Sabalenka if she maintains the same intensity she displayed in set two.
With the draw stacked with contenders like Iga Swiatek, Coco Gauff, and Elena Rybakina, Sabalenka knows every match is a test. Yet her ability to adapt—recovering from shaky starts, imposing her firepower, and feeding off the crowd—remains her greatest weapon.
A Champion’s Aura
Beyond the stats, what stood out in Sabalenka’s opener was her demeanor. In moments of frustration, she refused to unravel. Instead, she channeled the roaring energy of Ashe into resilience and shot-making brilliance.
Fans witnessed not just a player defending a title, but a champion who has matured into her role. Sabalenka thrives under the spotlight now—embracing pressure instead of fearing it.
As she continues her campaign, one question looms large: Can she sustain this form across two demanding weeks in New York? If her first-round statement is any indication, Aryna Sabalenka is ready to defend her throne.
