Sabalenka Faces Unwanted Legacy at US Open

Defending Champion Aims to Avert Joining Elite List of Grand Slam-less World No. 1s

Defending US Open champion Aryna Sabalenka faces immense pressure to secure a major title in 2025, with a significant career milestone hanging in the balance. Her quest for a second Grand Slam this year has been marred by near misses.

Near Misses Plague Sabalenka’s Major Campaign

Despite reaching two major finals and a Wimbledon semi-final this year, **Sabalenka** has faltered at critical junctures. She held set advantages in Melbourne and Paris but ultimately saw victory slip away, highlighting a need for decisive play in crucial moments.

Avoiding the Unwanted Record

Failure to capture the US Open title would place **Sabalenka** on a historically significant, albeit undesirable, list. She risks joining tennis legends like **John McEnroe** and **Lindsay Davenport**, who finished seasons ranked world number one without winning a single Grand Slam title.

**Davenport** experienced this in 2005, reaching finals at the Australian Open and Wimbledon, while **McEnroe** lost the Wimbledon final and a US Open semi-final in 1982. **Sabalenka**, currently holding a commanding lead in the WTA rankings, is on track to share this distinction if she cannot win in New York.

Withdrawal from Montreal Sparks Preparation Questions

**Sabalenka**, aged 27, has withdrawn from the upcoming Montreal Open, citing fatigue. This decision raises questions about her preparation, though it could ultimately benefit her by allowing for a period of recovery before the final major of the year.

The physical and emotional toll of the demanding season, coupled with the absence of a Grand Slam title, is considerable. This break may serve to refresh **Sabalenka** for a deeper run in New York.

Speculation also surrounds potential crowd reaction in New York, possibly influenced by past controversial remarks **Sabalenka** made concerning **Coco Gauff** after the French Open final. How any potential scrutiny impacts her performance remains to be seen.

As of late July 2025, **Sabalenka** has won 48 matches on tour, demonstrating her dominance despite the lack of a major title, a stark contrast to her previous successful seasons where she captured multiple Grand Slams. (WTA Tour).

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