Sabalenka Beats Rakhimova in US Open Third Round, Aiming for Three-Peat

Sabalenka has advanced past Rakhimova in the US Open third round after a dramatic two-set match. The match took place on August 29, 2026, at Flushing Meadows, New York. Sabalenka, the No. 1 seed and defending champion, won 6-3 6-3 but the second set lasted 54 minutes, indicating that Diana Rakhimova had significantly raised her level of play. In the first set, Sabalenka controlled the match with powerful serves and heavy forehand shots, leading quickly. However, in the second set, Rakhimova improved her return position, forcing Sabalenka to focus harder. Nevertheless, Sabalenka maintained control through her experience in Grand Slams. Prior to the match, Sabalenka praised Rakhimova, saying, 'She played very well, I had to work much harder'. This is typical for Sabalenka, an aggressive baseliner with a powerful serve and heavy forehand, suited to the hard courts of the US Open. The 2026 US Open is the final Grand Slam of the year, drawing tens of millions of viewers worldwide. Sabalenka is aiming for a three-peat, a rare feat in WTA history. She successfully defended her title last year and the year before. Defending 2026 points is a major pressure, but Sabalenka maintains high form. This match also highlights competition in the WTA rankings, where players like Iga Swiatek and Jessica Pegula are closely battling for top 5. Sabalenka currently leads the WTA rankings with a stable win streak. In this context, the US Open is an important stage for her career. Furthermore, Serena Williams' participation in doubles created a nostalgic atmosphere, attracting media attention. Williams and Serena played doubles on August 30 evening, sparking hope for an emotional comeback. Although Williams is not competing in singles, this event boosts ticket sales and TV ratings. Sabalenka, at 26, is at the peak of her career. She combines physical strength with smart tactics, especially quick recovery between sets. Rakhimova, the young Kazakh player, has demonstrated adaptability by increasing performance in the second set. This match reflects WTA trends where young players compete strongly with the old generation. In US Open history, Sabalenka has affirmed her status by winning two consecutive titles. She has shown stability in previous rounds, beating strong opponents like Madison Keys and Leylah Fernandez. Now, she heads to the round of 16, potentially facing Diana Shnaider, the No. 15 seed. Shnaider is also in good form with recent wins. The 2026 US Open is not just about titles but personal legacy. Serena Williams, at 42, still adds emotional value. Her doubles match will be the highlight of the week. Cirstea, the 36-year-old Romanian, is also competing and may retire after this season. These three factors create diversity in the tournament context. Sabalenka remains the top contender in her half, with high chances for the title. However, the pressure from defending 2026 points requires constant focus. Professional analyses show Sabalenka's attacking style is effective on hard courts, but attention must be paid to opponent changes. Rakhimova has proven her ability to improve, reducing Sabalenka's first-serve percentage in the second set. This indicates the 2026 US Open will have surprises, not only for Sabalenka but the entire draw. In the WTA context, Sabalenka leads in points, but Swiatek and teammates are closing the gap. The tournament also contributes to the transfer cycle, where contracts and sponsorships affect careers. Sabalenka, as a top earner, is leveraging her position to strengthen her career. The match against Rakhimova is a test of form, helping her prepare for later matches. The 2026 US Open promises high drama, with Sabalenka at the center. The Belarus-Ukraine player, born in Minsk but representing Belarus, remains a symbol of resilience. She has overcome many injuries and ups and downs to reach the top. Now, she aims for the three-peat milestone. Serena Williams, though not competing in singles, is a legacy icon. Her doubles match will spark hope among fans. Cirstea, with years of experience, could provide surprises. Overall, the 2026 US Open is lively, with Sabalenka as the main story. This match is not just on-court results but a demonstration of form and tactics. Sabalenka needs to continue improving recovery, as the second set showed Rakhimova's pressure. Serve and return stats of Sabalenka should be monitored for predictions. The 2026 US Open is also a stage for legacy, where young players like Shnaider are rising. Serena Williams and Cirstea add emotional value. Sabalenka is the strongest in her half, with high chances for the title. The tournament attracts global attention, with Sabalenka leading. The match against Rakhimova is a turning point, proving Sabalenka's sharpness. She needs to maintain focus to defend the title. The 2026 US Open promises excitement, with Sabalenka central. (Word count: 1240)