Rybakina battles Sabalenka at US Open, chasing the world no.1 crown

On September 12, the US Open will stage the women’s singles final between World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka and No.2 Elena Rybakina at 4 p.m. ET.

The match will be broadcast on ESPN, offering fans a chance to watch the showdown live from anywhere in the United States. As the tournament reaches its climax, the stakes for both players are high.

This encounter marks the second time Sabalenka and Rybakina have faced each other in a grand‑slam final this year. In February, at the Australian Open, Rybakina handed Sabalenka her first defeat of the season by taking the title. The rivalry has intensified as both athletes are vying for dominance on the WTA circuit.

Although the outcome of this match will not alter the immediate rankings, Rybakina is positioned to overtake Sabalenka as World No.1 regardless of today’s result. The two players’ contrasting styles and recent form make the final a compelling narrative for tennis fans.

Fans can expect a hard‑fought contest as each player seeks to secure her place at the top.

## Background & Context

The US Open is one of tennis’s four Grand Slam tournaments, attracting the world’s best athletes and millions of viewers worldwide. The women’s singles draw has featured several high‑profile matchups over the past decade, with recent champions including both Sabalenka and Rybakina.

Their paths converged in the 2026 edition, setting up a repeat face‑off after the Australian Open.

Sabalenka has earned her reputation as a powerful baseline player, consistently ranking within the top five since she broke into the top 10 in early 2024. She entered the tournament as the defending champion, having won back‑to‑back titles earlier in the season.

Rybakina, meanwhile, has demonstrated exceptional consistency and a strong mental game that propelled her to the second ranking spot.

Their previous meeting in February highlighted Rybakina’s ability to control high‑pressure moments, while Sabalenka showcased resilience after a tough first set. The US Open final will test whether Sabalenka can adjust her strategy against Rybakina’s precise shot‑making and tactical awareness.

## Streaming Options for the Final

The match will be available on ESPN for viewers across the United States, with broadcasts accessible through several streaming platforms. Subscribers to DIRECTV’s Choice plan, which includes ESPN, can start a five‑day free trial and receive a $30 discount on the first month.

ESPN+ offers a standalone subscription for $31.99 , providing full coverage of all tournament matches and additional content such as behind‑the‑scenes footage. Fans who prefer a more flexible option can also try Sling TV’s Orange Day Pass, priced at $4.99 for 24 hours of access to all Sling TV Orange channels, including ESPN.

Each service delivers high‑definition streams with live commentary, ensuring that fans can follow every rally and momentum shift in real time. Viewers should plan their setup early to avoid any service interruptions during the critical stages of the final.

## What Comes After the Match

The outcome of this match will cement a new era for women’s tennis, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape as Rybakina could claim the World No.1 spot. Sabalenka, meanwhile, will aim to defend her title and maintain her position at the top of the rankings.

Beyond the final match, both players will have opportunities to participate in post‑tournament exhibitions and press conferences, where they can reflect on their performances and set goals for the remainder of the season. The ATP and WTA calendars are packed with events that will test their resilience following the high‑stakes clash.

For fans, the US Open final offers a snapshot of elite tennis in action, showcasing not only athletic prowess but also strategic depth. The match also serves as a reminder of how quickly rankings can shift based on a single victory, adding to the drama that surrounds the sport.

As the clock ticks toward 4 p.m. ET on September 12, tennis enthusiasts across the country will be ready to witness a clash that could redefine the hierarchy of the WTA tour. Whether you’re catching the action through DIRECTV, ESPN+, or Sling TV, the stage is set for an unforgettable showdown between Sabalenka and Rybakina.