Aryna Sabalenka beats Jessica Pegula to win maiden US Open women's singles title, says 'never give up'

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Aryana Sabalenka won her maiden US Open women's singles title by beating home favourite Jessica Pegula 7-5, 7-5 on Sunday (September 8). The second seed Belarusian, who lost the title match to Coco Gauff last year, in her winning speech urged fans to never stop dreaming.

The 26-year-old second seed fought hard for almost two hours to beat sixth seeded Jessica Pegula at the Arthur Ashe Stadium, and grab her third Grand Slam title . Earlier this year, Sabalenka successfully defended her Australian Open title.

Pegula entered her maiden grand slam final match on the back of a brilliant run of form. She defeated world No.1 Iga Swiatek in the quarterfinals, before registering a come-from-behind win against 2023 French Open runner-up Karolina Muchova 1-6, 6-4, 6-2. Overall, the 30-year-old had won 15 of her last 16 matches before facing Sabalenka in the title match.

The local favourite did give Sabalenka a tough fight, but the world number 2 held her nerves this time, and did not let history repeat itself. It was USA's Gauff who defeated her in the final despite losing the first set.

Aryana Sabalenka was ecstatic after winning her third major trophy and was beaming with joy. She also had a word of appreciation for Pegula.

“Oh my god. I’m speechless right now. So many times, I thought I was so close to winning this. It was a dream of mine. Finally, I got this beautiful trophy. It means a lot. It was a difficult couple of weeks. I know how tough it is to lose in the final Jessica. You’re showing amazing tennis. I’m more than sure you’re going to get one. Not one, maybe more but let’s start with one,” Sabalenka said.

Sabalenka also sent out a message to never give up on a dream, and keep working hard for it. She added that she was super proud of her stunning run in the US Open 2024.

“I remember all those tough losses in the past year... it’s gonna sound easy but never give up on your dream. Keep dreaming and keep working hard. If you’re really working hard and you sacrifice everything for your dream, you’re going to get it one day. I’m super proud of myself. I never say that,” Sabalenka added.