American tennis is gaining national attention during this year’s US Open. Analysts Patrick McEnroe and Rich ‘Big Daddy’ Salgado discuss the event’s major storylines, which include predictions for champions and the growing impact of sports betting and celebrity culture.

Elena Rybakina moved closer to a career Grand Slam by defeating Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 to capture her first US Open title. Rybakina secured the top spot from Sabalenka in women’s tennis world rankings, marking an official change of leadership. She expressed her emotions after the victory, saying the achievement was unexpected due to dealing with an injury.

Rybakina celebrated with the trophy after her win over Sabalenka at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on Sept. 12, 2026. This victory follows her Australian Open title, also against Sabalenka.

Sabalenka had a 19-match winning streak at the US Open, trying to become the first since Serena Williams to win three consecutive titles at Flushing Meadows. Despite the loss, Sabalenka shared her enthusiasm for the venue and looks forward to returning next year.

The Arthur Ashe Stadium hosted the third US Open women’s final since 2000 featuring the No. 1 and No. 2 seeds, a match won by the No. 2 seed for the first time. The first two matchups were won by Serena Williams.

Rybakina was born in Russia but represents Kazakhstan. She won a major title at Wimbledon in 2022. Achieving victory at the French Open is her next target to complete a career Grand Slam.

During the match, Rybakina overcame early frustration and dominated the final set. Sabalenka had previously won two matches against Rybakina this season, leading the rivalry 10-8.

On the men’s side, American Ben Shelton is set to face Germany’s Alexander Zverev in the singles final.