Aryna Sabalenka wins US Open with a straight-sets win over Amanda Anisimova

Aryna Sabalenka has successfully defended her US Open title after a straight-sets triumph over Amanda Anisimova.

The world No 1 battled past the home favourite 6-3, 7-6 (7-3) to win her first Grand Slam title of the year.

Sabalenka’s performance was measured unlike her defeats in the Australian Open and French Open finals this year, as well as her Wimbledon semi-final defeat by Anisimova.

‘After two finals where I completely lost control of my emotions, I didn’t want to let that to happen again,’ Sabalenka told ESPN.

‘There were some moments where I was close to letting it go, but I kept calm.’

Some solace for Amanda Anisimova in defeat

For Anisimova, there can be some comfort in this loss – despite the obvious disappointment.

In July, the American broke down in tears after losing 6-0, 6-0 to Iga Swiatek in the Wimbledon showpiece and her first-ever Grand Slam final appearance.

Fast-forward to now and her outing against Sabalenka was befitting of her skillset, even though she came up short.

‘It’s been a great summer. Losing two finals in a row is great but also super hard,’ she reflected.

‘I didn’t fight hard enough for my dreams today.’

Speaking about her beaten opponent, Sabelenka gave words of encouragement: ‘I know how hard these finals hurt nut you will enjoy it more after these tough losses.’