Rybakina makes winning start in race to number one
Elena Rybakina says she is "motivated" by the race to become world number one but is simply taking things "day by day" after getting her US Open campaign off to a winning start.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"I'm definitely motivated [to become world number one]"
— Elena Rybakina , Athlete
"We didn't know if [I was] going to be able to play here or not."
— Elena Rybakina , Athlete
"She played really well today. She has great shots, great serve, it was no easy."
— Elena Rybakina , Athlete
Key People
Aryna Sabalenka is a Belarusian tennis player who was defeated by Andreeva in the quarterfinals at Roland Garros.
Coco Gauff is a two-time Grand Slam singles champion and the youngest player to reach the semi-finals at all four Grand Slams since Maria Sharapova.
Elena Rybakina is a Kazakhstani professional tennis player and the 2022 Wimbledon champion.
Jessica Pegula is an American professional tennis player currently ranked world number four.
Maya Joint is a professional tennis player scheduled to compete against Serena Williams.
Serena Williams is a 23-time Grand Slam singles champion returning to competitive tennis.
Thea Frodin is an American teenage wildcard who is competing in the US Open.
Venus Williams is a five-time Wimbledon singles champion and a prominent figure in women's tennis.
Tags
All Coverage
Elena Rybakina says she is "motivated" by the race to become world number one but is simply taking things "day by day" after getting her US Open campaign off to a winning start.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
Bouzkova beats Kartal as Czech Republic take BJK Cup lead over GB
Sonay Kartal is narrowly beaten by Marie Bouzkova in the first singles match as Czech Republic take a 1-0 lead over Great Britain in the Billie Jean King Cup.
September 22, 2026 at 12:42 PMBred for success - why Backstedt can hit cycling's peaks
Zoe Backstedt won world time trial silver in Montreal aged just 21 and the multiple junior world champion plans to win much more.
September 21, 2026 at 12:57 PMVollering wins women's road race world title
Demi Vollering continues her remarkable season with a thrilling victory in the women's road race in Montreal.
September 26, 2026 at 08:36 PMCAS ruling on Russia a red line for FIDE, says presidential candidate Turlov - Reuters
CAS ruling on Russia a red line for FIDE, says presidential candidate Turlov Reuters
September 21, 2026 at 02:57 PMEel-powered Kurihara, 11, wins gold at Asian Games
Student Yuki Kurihara, 11 - the youngest competitor at the Asian Games - wins gold by beating opponents almost three times his age at a computer game.
September 26, 2026 at 06:17 AM'Mr Saturday' Russell 'comes through other side after real tough period'
George Russell described the Azerbaijan Grand Prix as "the most dominant weekend I've had in my career" after a win that felt like vindication.
September 26, 2026 at 05:44 PM