Elena Rybakina has made history by winning her first US Open title, defeating two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka. This victory not only marked Rybakina's triumph at a Grand Slam but also catapulted her to the World No. 1 ranking, a position she achieved just days prior. Following her success, Rybakina has also become the first singles player to qualify for the 2026 WTA Finals in Indian Wells.

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“I didn’t even realize that I also qualified,” Rybakina said after the final. “It feels amazing. The achievement of becoming No. 1 was so stressful. Now, winning the title here is tough to believe.”

Rybakina will be returning to Indian Wells for her fourth consecutive WTA Finals as the defending champion. She recently triumphed at the BNP Paribas Open earlier this year and is preparing to compete again just over 50 days after her triumph in New York.

“It’s great to be in the final eight again,” she remarked, expressing her excitement for the tournament. “I definitely have great memories from Indian Wells. It’s going to be different, but I definitely will enjoy it and hopefully do well.”

Rybakina’s ascent in tennis began last fall when she won in Ningbo, securing her spot in the WTA Finals. Since then, she has added titles at the Australian Open, Stuttgart, and the US Open, and reached multiple finals and quarterfinals throughout the season.

At the US Open, Rybakina became the 30th player in WTA history to reach the No. 1 ranking, accomplishing this feat two matches before defeating Sabalenka, who previously held the position for 99 weeks. As Rybakina's career progresses, she is also helping to elevate the profile of Kazakhstani tennis.

“I want to share this moment with all the people in Kazakhstan who supported me,” she said. “There are so many kids practicing at facilities, which is a great thing.”

Despite her achievements, Rybakina remains focused on her goals. “The job’s never done, to be honest,” she said, emphasizing her desire to compete for the top Grand Slam titles consistently.

Reflecting on her legacy, Rybakina stated her aim is to win the French Open, which would complete her collection of Grand Slam titles. Her journey, supported by the Kazakhstan Tennis Federation, has shaped her into the player she is today.

In an emotional moment, Rybakina received the US Open trophy from former No. 1 Maria Sharapova. The interaction was particularly meaningful for her, as she recalled watching Sharapova growing up.

“I talked to Maria for the first time today,” Rybakina said. “It was a special moment sharing that with her.”

As she prepares for the challenges ahead, Rybakina acknowledges the hard work of her team and supporters and remains focused on her future in tennis.