Aryna Sabalenka began her defense of the US Open title with a convincing straight-sets victory over Colombia’s Camila Osorio on Monday at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The world number one secured a 6-2, 6-4 win to advance to the second round of the tournament as she seeks a third consecutive Flushing Meadows championship.

Sabalenka, 28, has experienced fluctuating form in recent months after a dominant start to the season that included winning both Indian Wells and Miami, a rare achievement known as the “Sunshine Double.” However, subsequent results saw her lose seven of 24 matches, including unexpectedly early departures from the French Open and Wimbledon. This dip in consistency has allowed Elena Rybakina to narrow the points gap for the top-ranking spot. The Kazakh player, who will face 17-year-old American wild card Thea Frodin in her next match, is currently just 434 points behind Sabalenka, who has held the number one ranking for 99 weeks.

Defending 2,000 ranking points at the US Open, Sabalenka said she is focusing on herself and embracing the challenge ahead. “I’m trying to focus on myself. I’m enjoying my time in New York and I’m ready to go out here and do anything it takes to get the wins. I’m ready for the fight!” she stated.

In the second round, Sabalenka is set to play Russian qualifier Polina Iatcenko, known for her notably slow second serve clocked at 53 mph, which proved effective in her opening-round upset of Mexico’s Renata Zarazua.

As the tournament unfolds, Sabalenka faces the task of maintaining her top form against a field eager to capitalize on her recent vulnerabilities, while also safeguarding her position at the summit of women’s tennis.