Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka recovered from a devastating position to defeat sixth seed Linda Noskova 7-6 (1), 3-6, 7-6 (7) in a quarter-final thriller, advancing to her sixth consecutive US Open semifinal. The match, played on Tuesday at Arthur Ashe Stadium, saw the top-seeded Sabalenka mount an extraordinary comeback after trailing 2-4 in the final set, ultimately closing the contest with a second-serve ace on match point.
For much of the encounter, it appeared that Sabalenka would succumb to the frustration and self-doubt that has plagued her throughout the year. At 2-2 in the decisive third set, a second double fault left her facing a 0-40 deficit. She dropped to her knees, bowed her head and released a scream of anguish. Within moments, the scoreline had shifted to 2-4 against her.
Yet with her US Open title and world No. 1 ranking at stake, Sabalenka found reserves of mental strength that have eluded her in recent months. After falling behind 2-4 and 0-15, she delivered a commanding service hold followed by a flawless return game, breaking Noskova to love and levelling the set. The turning point came as Sabalenka continued to target Noskova's forehand, a stroke that had been formidable for much of the match but began to falter under pressure in the final stages.
What made this match so compelling?
This encounter represented one of the finest displays of aggressive baseline tennis at this year's tournament. Both competitors demonstrated fearless shot-making, with Noskova unleashing 18 aces while Sabalenka finished with 12 aces and a 46% rate of unreturned serves. According to match statistics, Sabalenka accumulated 42 winners against 30 unforced errors, while Noskova posted 46 winners but committed 25 unforced errors. Both players attacked the baseline relentlessly, with Sabalenka's explosive power contrasting sharply against Noskova's refined timing and directional precision.
The opening set encapsulated the quality on display, with Sabalenka securing the tie-break 7-1 after a commanding display of serving. She punctuated the set with a statement second-serve ace, demonstrating her willingness to take risks even on her weaker delivery.
How did Sabalenka describe her mental state during the match?
What a battle. What an incredible player she is. I'm speechless right now because I was pushing myself to the limit in this match, especially in the third set. I honestly thought that that's it, the match is over. Probably that's what helped me to feel loose and go after my shots. Super happy to get this win.
Sabalenka's ability to reset mentally after the second set loss—when Noskova claimed a 6-3 victory—proved decisive. Rather than allowing doubt to compound, she channelled her desperation into aggressive shot selection, particularly when the match hung in the balance during the final set's climactic moments.
What does this result mean for the rankings?
Sabalenka's progression keeps her in contention for a third consecutive US Open title and maintains her grip on the world No. 1 ranking. However, the rankings picture remains fluid. Elena Rybakina has the opportunity to usurp Sabalenka as world No. 1 should she defeat Zheng Qinwen in their quarter-final on Wednesday. If Rybakina loses, the final ranking will depend on the tournament's outcome, with Sabalenka, Coco Gauff or Jessica Pegula potentially finishing as world No. 1 depending on who claims the title.
What lies ahead for both players?
Sabalenka will next face the winner of the all-American quarter-final between third seed Jessica Pegula and 26th seed Emma Navarro. Her path to a third straight US Open crown remains open, though the quality of opposition in the draw—where each of the top six seeds reached the quarter-finals—ensures no margin for error.
For Noskova, the 21-year-old's performance represents a significant statement despite the defeat. After winning Wimbledon earlier this summer, she had struggled to maintain motivation heading into the US Open. Reaching the quarter-finals of her next grand slam and performing at such an elevated level against the world's top-ranked player demonstrates her credentials as an emerging force. As she adjusts to her elevated status in the sport, Noskova will only continue to develop and pose serious challenges to the established elite.
Key Facts
- Sabalenka defeated Noskova 7-6 (1), 3-6, 7-6 (7) in a quarter-final lasting over three hours
- The final tiebreak score was 10-7, with Sabalenka closing on a second-serve ace
- Sabalenka now has a sixth consecutive US Open semifinal appearance
- The defending champion remains alive for a third straight US Open title
- Noskova's performance as the sixth seed marked her breakthrough at a major following her Wimbledon triumph
