Queen of New York: Aryna Sabalenka wins US Open for her third Grand Slam title

Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka hoisted the trophy in New York at last after years of close calls, as she outmaneuvered American sixth seed Jessica Pegula 7-5 7-5 in the US Open women’s final.

Sabalenka won her first title at Flushing Meadows a year after coming up short in the final. Twice before, she reached the semifinals. On Saturday, she blocked out the wild cheers for the hometown favourite on Arthur Ashe Stadium to break Pegula in the final game.

“So many times I thought I was so close to get US Open title. Finally, I get this beautiful trophy,” said the second seed, who fought back from a break down in both sets to claim victory and fell to the court in her moment of triumph.

Tears flowed immediately for Sabalenka as she claimed her third Grand Slam title after winning the Australian Open twice. She high-fived fans as she ran up the stands to share a joyful celebration with her team.

“I remember all those tough loses in the past here and you know, it’s going to sound cheesy but never give up on your dream and just keep trying,” she said.

The Belarusian dropped only one set in New York on her way to the final as key contenders including defending champion Coco Gauff and top seed Iga Swiatek crashed out.

The performance was particularly sweet after injury sidelined her midway through the season, and she missed both Wimbledon and the Paris Games.

Pegula, 30, had waited a long time to reach her first Major final and came to New York in fine form after winning in Toronto. But she could not match her opponent’s raw power despite the noisy backing of the New York crowd.