Sabalenka Starts US Open Defense, Backs WTA Testing

Aryna Sabalenka started her US Open title defense with a commanding 6-2, 6-4 victory over Camila Osorio on August 31. The world No. 1 from Belarus, competing as a neutral athlete, immediately set a tone of forward momentum after a challenging four-month spell without a final.

Sabalenka's US Open campaign begins with a win

Sabalenka produced a professional performance on Arthur Ashe Stadium, serving well and overpowering Osorio from the baseline. She eased through the first set and closed out the match by winning the final three games of the second. "I just tried to stay as aggressive as possible," Sabalenka said. The win moves her into the second round as she chases a third consecutive US Open crown. Her immediate focus is clear. "I never look back," she stated. "Today is a new day, and I have to stay in the moment."

Her world No. 1 ranking is under threat

This mindset is vital as her top spot is in real danger. Sabalenka has not reached a tournament final since March, with early exits at Wimbledon and the North American hardcourt events. Elena Rybakina now has a strong chance to take the No. Sabalenka's 92-week reign at the summit could end depending on their respective results in New York. The pressure is a constant, but her Grand Slam pedigree often shines through.

Sabalenka endorses WTA's new genetic testing policy

Away from the court, Sabalenka recently made headlines for supporting a significant tour policy change. On August 4, she endorsed the WTA's new mandatory genetic testing protocol. The policy, introduced in July 2026, requires a one-time test for the SRY gene. "I think it's really important to keep the fairness in our tour," Sabalenka said. She argued that biological men are stronger and competition would be unfair. "If they want to test us all, I'm happy to do that," she added. Her endorsement carries weight given her status.

The broader US Open landscape on Day 2

Sabalenka's victory was part of a busy second day at Flushing Meadows. Defending men's champion Carlos Alcaraz also won in straight sets in his return from a four-month wrist injury, admitting he had "some doubts" about his readiness for best-of-five tennis. The day's biggest upset saw Stefanos Tsitsipas defeat 10th seed Arthur Fils, the Cincinnati Open champion. Other notable winners included Iga Swiatek, Naomi Osaka, and Ben Shelton. The results set the stage for a compelling second round.

• Title Defense Started: Aryna Sabalenka beat Camila Osorio 6-2, 6-4 in the US Open first round on August 31.
• Ranking Pressure: Her world No. 1 position is at risk after a four-month finals drought.
• Policy Support: Sabalenka publicly supported the WTA's new mandatory genetic testing policy in early August.