So here’s the wild part: Sabalenka is entering the 2026 final as the two-time defending champion. That means she won in 2026 and 2026. Elite company, my friends. Who even does that? It’s so hard to repeat in tennis because everyone is gunning for you. But three-peats? That’s legendary stuff.
Think about the pressure: every opponent is bringing their best game because they want to be the one to stop her. It’s like being the villain in a movie, but in the best way possible. She doesn’t just play the matches; she owns that court. Flushing Meadows feels like her second home.
Defending US Open Champion Sabalenka Simply Too Good For Pegula
What Makes Her Tick at 28?
Her game is about power. She hits the ball like she’s personally offended by it. But what’s changed is her composure. At 28, she’s not the emotional wreck she used to be. Remember those early years when she’d scream at her box or smash a racket? Now she just glares, grunts, and moves on. It’s growth, people.
There’s also a playful side to her. She dances to the music during changeovers. She laughs during interviews. She named her dog after a tennis shot (“Elsa” for her forehand? No, but close). It’s that mix of fierce competitor and goofy human that makes her so easy to root for. Or against, if you’re on the other side of the net.
