Sabalenka must win US Open to keep No.1 after 97-week reign

Aryna Sabalenka has held world No.1 for 97 consecutive weeks. At the 2026 US Open, she must win the title to stay there. The two-time defending champion has reached no finals since March, going 17-7. In Cincinnati, Sára Bejlek beat her 7-6(9-7), 6-4. Sabalenka also seeks a record third straight US Open crown. Reuters reports a difficult draw.