How Sabalenka could lose No 1 ranking at US Open
Tennis star Aryna Sabalenka faces a critical challenge at the upcoming US Open as she attempts to defend her world number one ranking. After a period of inconsistent performance, she must win the tournament to maintain her lead over Elena Rybakina.
Why it matters
The US Open is a major sporting event, and the shift in rankings reflects the high-stakes nature of professional tennis competition.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Aryna Sabalenka has won four Grand Slam singles titles, including two US Open victories in 2024 and 2025
BBC Sport tennis news reporter Published 30 August 2026, 06:06 BST All was bright in Aryna Sabalenka's world when she completed a rare 'Sunshine Double' earlier this season.
Becoming only the fifth woman to win the Indian Wells and Miami titles back-to-back, Sabalenka emphasised her position as the dominant player on the WTA Tour and created a 3,000-point lead at the top of the world rankings.
But a difficult period quickly followed - seemingly out of nowhere - leaving the 28-year-old Belarusian clinging on to her position going into the US Open, which starts on Sunday.
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