Having advanced to the semi-final stage, the second-seeded Rybakina is set to claim the top spot in the world rankings on Monday, bringing Sabalenka’s 99-week stretch at number one to a close.
Nevertheless, the second seed downplayed the peak ranking as “merely a statistic,” emphasizing that her primary concentration lies in securing her third Grand Slam championship.
“The achievement loses some of its luster if you ascend to world number one right after dropping a Grand Slam semifinal or final, so she will be determined to round off an ideal two weeks by capturing the title,” noted tennis correspondent Russell Fuller on BBC Radio 5 Live.
Blocking her path, though, is Gauff, who can expect passionate support from the home spectators inside Arthur Ashe Stadium.
The 22-year-old from the United States, who claimed the championship at Flushing Meadows in 2023 before bowing out in the fourth round over the next two editions, noted that she is approaching this season’s tournament with a fresh outlook.
“At times, you get completely consumed by the immediate present because the desire to win right now is so strong, and of course, you want to capitalize on your chances,” she expressed.
“When looking at the broader picture, my frame of mind and outlook are certainly much different now than they were twelve months ago.
“Observing how much progress I have made over the course of a year gives me a bit more drive to continue working hard.”
While Gauff holds a 2-1 advantage in their previous meetings, Rybakina, the reigning Australian Open titleholder, rallied from a set deficit to defeat her during last month’s Canadian Open semifinals.
“There will be times when she fires aces and winners past me, but I am going to keep battling and leave everything on the court. That is all I can do,” Gauff declared.
