Aryna Sabalenka eyes dream US Open hat-trick, but shaky form raises questions
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka is attempting to win her third consecutive US Open title, though recent inconsistent form has raised doubts about her chances. After a dominant start to the 2026 season, she has struggled to reach finals since April.
Why it matters
Sabalenka's performance is a major narrative in professional tennis, as she attempts to join an elite group of players who have achieved a three-peat at the US Open.
Aryna Sabalenka arrives at Flushing Meadows chasing something that very few women in the Open Era have achieved: three consecutive US Open singles titles.The world No.1 lifted the trophy in New York in 2024 and 2025, and victory this year would place her alongside an elite group of champions who have dominated the tournament across generations.But for all the weight of history behind her pursuit, Sabalenka's biggest challenge may not be the record books. It could be herself.The Belarusian began 2026 in extraordinary fashion, winning Indian Wells and Miami to complete the Sunshine Double. She won 26 of her first 27 matches of the season and appeared to have established herself as the player to beat on hard courts.Since April, however, the picture has changed dramatically.
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