Sabalenka, Alcaraz Storm Into US Open Fourth Round as Title Defences Gather Pace
Aryna Sabalenka extended her winning streak at Flushing Meadows, while Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev also advanced to the last 16.
US, Sep 05 : Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka and reigning men’s champion Carlos Alcaraz continued their strong campaigns at the 2026 US Open on Friday, September 4, reaching the fourth round with convincing victories.
Sabalenka defeated Uzbekistan’s Kamilla Rakhimova 6-3, 6-4 to maintain her push for a third consecutive US Open crown. The world No. 1 produced another powerful serving display, recording 10 aces and not allowing her opponent a single break point.
The Belarusian has now won 16 consecutive matches at Flushing Meadows. Her latest victory also kept alive her bid to become the first woman since Serena Williams to win three successive US Open singles titles.
Sabalenka’s progress was briefly interrupted during the match when play was stopped after she complained about a strong cannabis smell coming from the stands. Despite the unusual distraction, she quickly regained her focus and closed out the contest in straight sets.
She will next face either American Taylor Townsend or 15th seed Diana Shnaider in the fourth round.
Alcaraz was equally impressive in the men’s draw, defeating China’s Wu Yibing 6-3, 6-4, 6-1. The Spaniard, who is seeking to retain his title, moved into the last 16 and will next meet American Tommy Paul.
Daniil Medvedev also advanced after beating France’s Arthur Rinderknech in straight sets. Meanwhile, Stefanos Tsitsipas recovered from an early setback to overcome Jiri Lehecka in four sets and reach the fourth round for the first time.
Jessica Pegula produced another comeback in the women’s draw, recovering from a set down to defeat Canada’s Leylah Fernandez. Linda Noskova also reached the fourth round for the first time at the tournament, while Emma Navarro progressed after defeating Karolina Muchova.
The tournament also saw the much anticipated return of Serena and Venus Williams to Grand Slam doubles. The sisters were eliminated by Maya Joint and Chan Hao-ching in a closely fought three set contest.
With the singles competition entering its second week, the remaining contenders face increasingly difficult challenges as the race for the year’s final Grand Slam title intensifies.
