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Xtra Time Web Desk: Aryna Sabalenka captured her first US Open title and her third Grand Slam overall on Sunday, September 8, by defeating Jessica Pegula in a thrilling final at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Sabalenka triumphed 7-5, 7-5, putting behind the disappointment of last year’s final loss to Coco Gauff and cementing her status as one of the world’s top players.

The 26-year-old Belarusian displayed resilience throughout the match, fighting back from a 5-3 deficit in the second set to close out the win. After clinching the title, Sabalenka dropped to the floor in celebration, a moment of redemption after last year’s heartbreak. "I'm speechless right now. It's always been a dream of mine, and finally, I got this beautiful trophy," she said during her on-court interview.

Aryna Sabalenka’s emotional reaction after winning the US Open

It’s hard to watch this without getting chills.

This woman has had her share of ups, downs, joy, & heartache.

But every experience made her stronger.

She really has a tiger heart. ????????

pic.twitter.com/rOx9bAUTA2

— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) September 7, 2024

From @BillieJeanKing to @SabalenkaA...

The US Open crowns a new champion ???? pic.twitter.com/pOjHGhPWdo

— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 7, 2024

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Sabalenka, who successfully defended her Australian Open title earlier this year, became the first woman since Angelique Kerber in 2016 to win both hard-court Grand Slams in a single season. The victory extended her unbeaten run on hard courts to 14 matches in major tournaments. Known for her fun-loving team celebrations, Sabalenka popped champagne in the locker room, first spraying her team before being doused herself. 

2021 - Semifinal
2022 - Semifinal
2023 - Final
2024 - ???? https://t.co/kneJ6KeaHs pic.twitter.com/iHoNm23ba9

— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 7, 2024

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Pegula, playing in her first Grand Slam final, put up a strong fight but couldn’t capitalize on key moments. Despite the loss, the American sixth seed showed great promise throughout the tournament.

With this win, Sabalenka collected 2,000 ranking points and $3.6 million in prize money, setting the stage for a thrilling race with Iga Swiatek for the year-end world No.1 ranking.