Rybakina one step away from world No. 1 ahead of US Open

Rybakina’s season had been remarkably consistent. By mid-August, she had recorded more victories at WTA 1000 tournaments than any other player on the women’s tour this season, bringing her total to 23 wins.

The key moment came in Cincinnati. Rybakina reached the quarterfinals of the tournament after defeating Russia’s Diana Shnaider, putting her within touching distance of becoming the world No. 1 for the first time in her career by overtaking Aryna Sabalenka. She needed just one more step: reaching the final.

In her quarterfinal against Iga Swiatek, Rybakina retired when trailing 1–4 in the first set due to a left ankle injury, leaving Sabalenka at the top of the rankings.

Media reports have raised the possibility of an Achilles tendon issue, while Rybakina herself is awaiting the results of a detailed medical examination ahead of the US Open, which begins next week.

Nevertheless, Elena Rybakina has indicated on social media that she has arrived in New York. The Kazakhstani player intends to compete and challenge for the world No. 1 position.