Upon her arrival in New York, a foot injury made it impossible for Elena Rybakina to walk pain-free. Now, she departs the city crowned as the US Open champion and the newly minted world number one.
Representing Kazakhstan, Rybakina delivered an outstanding display to defeat the double defending champion Aryna Sabalenka with a score of 6-4 5-7 6-2 in Saturday’s final, replicating her victory over her opponent at the Australian Open back in January.
Holding the silverware on Saturday evening, Rybakina mused that “some magic is happening” for her, considering the challenging build-up she had to the championship.
Just over a week prior to the start of the year’s final Grand Slam, the 27-year-old worsened a pre-existing foot condition during her quarter-final match against Iga Swiatek in Cincinnati last month.
Continuing to play while injured carried the risk of severe setbacks for the remainder of her season, but Rybakina was determined to compete in the year’s last major, aware that the world number one spot was within her reach.
“I felt incredibly discouraged. I honestly had no idea what each day would bring,” she remarked.
“When we got to New York, we went for an MRI scan. The results were quite discouraging.
“For the subsequent couple of days, even taking a step was painful.
“Fortunately, I had access to an excellent physician in Australia. She remained in constant communication with us, and together with my coaching staff, we managed to formulate a strategy.”
Although Rybakina avoided any on-court practice for seven days, she focused on daily gym-based rehabilitation while also enjoying dinners and movie outings to clear her mind, which ultimately prepared her for another Grand Slam victory.
She cruised through her opening four rounds at Flushing Meadows without conceding a single set, a run that included a victory over the four-time major champion Naomi Osaka.
Her path from that point forward was truly remarkable, featuring a quarter-final win over Olympic gold medalist Zheng Qinwen, a hard-fought semifinal victory against third seed Coco Gauff, and a masterclass against top seed Sabalenka in the title match.
“The timing of the injury was incredibly unfortunate, but I am extremely proud of myself,” Rybakina expressed.
“It still feels completely surreal.”
