Rybakina Wins US Open Despite Injury That Left Her Unable to Walk

Elena Rybakina arrived in New York City barely able to walk. She left as US Open champion and the new world number one tennis player.

The 27-year-old from Kazakhstan beat two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 on Saturday night. It's her second Grand Slam title this year after winning the Australian Open against the same opponent in January.

Just over a week before the tournament began, Rybakina aggravated a foot injury during a match in Cincinnati. The pain was so severe she couldn't walk normally for days after arriving in New York.

An MRI showed worrying results. Most athletes in her position would have withdrawn to protect their season.

But Rybakina had the top ranking within reach. With help from her Australian doctor via phone and her dedicated team, she created a recovery plan that seemed almost impossible.

She didn't step on a practice court for an entire week. Instead, she focused on daily gym recovery sessions and mental breaks like dinners out and movies to stay positive.

The strategy worked beyond anyone's expectations. Rybakina won her first four matches without dropping a single set, including a victory over four-time Grand Slam winner Naomi Osaka.

Her path to the trophy only got tougher from there. She defeated Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen in the quarterfinals, outlasted third seed Coco Gauff in the semis, and dominated top seed Sabalenka in the final.

Why This Inspires

Former British number one Annabel Croft called Rybakina "like a machine" on court, noting her remarkable composure under pressure. While Sabalenka grew visibly frustrated during the final, Rybakina stayed calm and focused.

That composure was tested when she served for the championship. Two double faults crept in as nerves finally showed.

But at match point, with the trophy in sight, Rybakina didn't blink. She fired her 12th ace of the match to seal the victory.

Her celebration was her biggest yet at a major tournament: a smile and both arms raised to the crowd's applause. For someone known for showing little emotion, it was a powerful moment.

On Monday, Rybakina becomes the 30th woman to reach number one in the world rankings. She now has three Grand Slam titles and has won two of the four available this year.

Former British number one Laura Robson believes more victories are coming. "I genuinely think she will win many more Slams," Robson said.

Rybakina's message after the win was simple: "Some magic is happening."