Chasing Serena: Sabalenka Sweeps Rakhimova Amid Bizarre US Open Distractions

Hello, tennis fans! If you have been following the US Open 2026 women's singles draw, you already know that the reigning champion is on an absolute mission this year. On September 4, 2026, World No. 1 and two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka stepped onto the court at Louis Armstrong Stadium and delivered exactly what we have come to expect: pure, unadulterated power.

Sabalenka defeated No. 92 ranked Kamilla Rakhimova in straight sets, 6-3, 6-4, in their third-round (Round of 32) clash. But this match was about much more than just the final scoreline. From a bizarre environmental distraction to a fiercely contested second set, there is a lot to unpack from these 2026 US Open Round 3 results. Let's dive into the details of how Sabalenka kept her historic three-peat dreams alive!

The Uniquely 'New York' Distraction

Grand Slam tournaments always have their quirks, but this one definitely caught everyone off guard. During the first set, a strong Louis Armstrong Stadium weed smell drifted onto the court. It was so noticeable that Sabalenka actually had to officially report the cannabis scent to chair umpire Eva Asderaki-Moore.

Interestingly, the tennis community and social media users found the whole incident highly amusing. Many fans online pointed out that it was a bizarre, yet uniquely 'New York' type of distraction to happen during a major tournament. While fans were left wondering if tournament officials or security took any specific action to locate the source of the smell after it was reported, Sabalenka did not let the haze break her laser-sharp focus.

Tactical Breakdown: A Tale of Two Sets

Heading into the match, the betting community viewed this as a heavy mismatch. Sabalenka was listed as a massive -2000 favorite, and sports betting analysts noted she held a significant pre-match advantage in serve quality, return aggression, and finishing power from both wings.

For the first set, the analysts were spot on. Sabalenka was untouchable on her serve, firing four aces and dropping a mere four points on her first serve. The straight-sets outcome seemed entirely expected at that point.

However, the second set was a completely different story. Pre-match tactical analysis suggested that Rakhimova's only viable path to victory was to absorb Sabalenka's immense pace, change the ball height, and prevent the World No. 1 from establishing her dominant inside-baseline positioning. Rakhimova executed this beautifully in a highly competitive second set that lasted a grueling 54 minutes.

During this set, Rakhimova showed incredible resilience, saving four break points before Sabalenka finally secured the decisive break. Following the match, Sabalenka herself praised her opponent's performance. She stated that the Uzbekistani played 'incredible tennis' in the second set and pushed her hard—something Sabalenka noted she actually appreciates for her own continuous improvement.

Chasing History: The Serena Williams Record

With this victory, the Sabalenka US Open win streak has officially extended to an incredible 16 consecutive matches. Why is this number so important? Because she is attempting to do something that hasn't been done in over a decade.

Sabalenka is aiming to become the first player to win three consecutive US Open titles since the legendary Serena Williams US Open record was established with her three-peat from 2012 to 2014. Watching Sabalenka play through the sweltering morning heat with such dominant form, it is hard to bet against her. Fans were absolutely loving her cheerful post-match interview, where she graciously expressed her gratitude for the packed morning crowd that came out to support her.

What Is Next for the World No. 1?

Prior to this match, Sabalenka already led the head-to-head record against Rakhimova 3-0 (their most recent meeting being at the 2025 French Open), so this win solidifies her dominance in that matchup. As for the Kamilla Rakhimova ranking, she put up a valiant fight that proves she can hang with the best on the biggest stages, even if the scoreboard favored the defending champ.

So, who is the Aryna Sabalenka next match against? She has now safely advanced to the Round of 16, where she will face either Diana Shnaider or Taylor Townsend.

If you missed the live action, I highly recommend looking up the Sabalenka vs Rakhimova highlights to see that phenomenal 54-minute second set for yourself. Be sure to check the updated 2026 US Open women's singles draw to follow Sabalenka's path to the final as she continues her quest for tennis history!