Aryna Sabalenka captured her second consecutive U.S. Open title on Saturday, defeating Amanda Anisimova 6-3, 7-6 (3) in the final. This victory marks Sabalenka's fourth Grand Slam title, all of which have come on hard courts. With this win, she becomes the first woman to win back-to-back U.S. Open titles since Serena Williams achieved the feat from 2012 to 2014.

The match took place at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York, where Sabalenka, the top seed, showcased her powerful game. She initially took control of the match, winning the first set 6-3. In the second set, Sabalenka led by a break twice and served for the match at 5-4. However, she faced a setback when she missed an overhead shot at 30-all, allowing Anisimova to break back and tie the set at 5-5.

Despite the pressure, Sabalenka regained her composure and ultimately triumphed in the tiebreaker. "All those tough lessons (were) worth this one," Sabalenka said after the match. "I'm speechless right now."

Anisimova, a 24-year-old from New Jersey, fought hard throughout the match. She had previously faced Sabalenka at Wimbledon, where she eliminated her in the earlier rounds. Anisimova's journey to the final included a significant victory over Iga Swiatek in the quarterfinals, where she avenged a previous loss.

After the match, Anisimova reflected on her experience, stating, "Losing in two finals in a row is great, but then it's also super hard. I think I didn't fight hard enough for my dreams today." Sabalenka offered words of encouragement, telling Anisimova, "I know how much it hurts losing in the finals, but trust me ... you're going to win (one)."

The match was played under the stadium's retractable roof due to rain, creating a windless environment that favored both players' aggressive styles. Sabalenka's victory not only solidifies her status as a top player but also prevents her from becoming the first woman to lose three major finals in a single season since Justine Henin in 2006.

As she accepted her $5 million prize, Sabalenka expressed gratitude for her journey, emphasizing the importance of perseverance in achieving her goals.