Elena Rybakina sets up blockbuster Coco Sabalenka final at US Open
Elena Rybakina defeated Coco Gauff to reach the US Open final, where she will face Aryna Sabalenka. This match marks a significant shift in the world rankings as Rybakina prepares to take the top spot.
Why it matters
Highlights a major shift in professional tennis rankings and the competitive landscape of the women's Grand Slam circuit.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Elena Rybakina had previously never advanced past the fourth round at the US Open
Soon-to-be world number one Elena Rybakina produced a gritty comeback against Coco Gauff to reach the US Open final, in which she will face Aryna Sabalenka in a blockbuster showdown between the tournament's top two seeds.
Rybakina is guaranteed to end Sabalenka's 99-week reign as world number one and will replace the Belarusian at the top when the rankings are updated on Monday.
But the Kazakh second seed could rub more salt in Sabalenka's wounds if she can deny the top seed a third successive US Open title in Saturday's showpiece.
Also covering this story
4 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
Sabalenka dethroned after 99 weeks: Rybakina to become world No.1 for first time
US Open 2026 results: Elena Rybakina replaces Aryna Sabalenka as women's world number one with win over Zheng Qinwen
How to watch Aryna Sabalenka vs. Jessica Pegula US Open semifinal free today
Coco Gauff rallies to reach U.S. Open semifinals against new women's No. 1 Elena Rybakina
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