Aryna Sabalenka’s devastating brand of first-strike tennis was the decisive factor in her 6-3, 7-6 (3) victory over Amanda Anisimova, as she successfully defended her US Open title. The World No. 1’s ability to dominate with her serve and first shot of the rally left Anisimova scrambling and unable to establish a foothold in the match.
From the opening game, Sabalenka put her game plan into action. She consistently landed powerful first serves, setting up easy put-aways with her forehand. When Anisimova was serving, Sabalenka was equally aggressive, crushing returns to immediately seize control of the point. This relentless, proactive approach kept the pressure squarely on the American.
Anisimova, herself a powerful player, struggled to counter Sabalenka’s offensive onslaught. She was frequently forced onto the defensive, unable to unleash her own big groundstrokes with the consistency needed to trouble the champion. Sabalenka’s attack was not just powerful; it was precise and unrelenting.
The final was a testament to the effectiveness of Sabalenka’s core strategy. By controlling the match from the very first shot, she dictated the terms of engagement and left her opponent with few options. This first-strike dominance is the foundation of her success and the reason she is a four-time Grand Slam champion.
