“Sabalenka favored for the 2026 US Open despite inconsistent form.”

Aryna Sabalenka, despite being the bookmakers' favorite for the 2026 US Open, has shown a performance that has left much to be desired in recent months. The world number one, who has dominated at Flushing Meadows in recent years, has lost momentum and is currently well below the list of players in top form as the Grand Slam that concludes the season approaches.

Sabalenka, who boasts an impressive record of 19 wins and just one loss in New York over the past three years, has secured consecutive titles, with her only defeat occurring in the 2023 final against Coco Gauff. However, the four-time Grand Slam champion arrives at this US Open with a concerning recent history, having been eliminated in the round of 16 in her last three tournaments (Wimbledon, Toronto, and Cincinnati). Her form appears to be below expectations, raising questions about her preparation for the tournament.

Although confidence is low, Sabalenka cannot be overlooked, especially when recalling her impressive victories at the Indian Wells and Miami tournaments in March, where she became only the fifth woman to achieve the Sunshine Double. It is important to remember that all her Grand Slam titles have been won on hard courts, with two at the Australian Open and two at the US Open.

Among Sabalenka's main competitors is Elena Rybakina, the current champion of the Australian Open, who has seen her popularity rise after being a finalist at the Canadian Open. However, her physical condition is a major concern, as she has been dealing with a leg injury that forced her to withdraw after just five games in the quarter-finals of the Cincinnati Open, where she admitted she could barely walk. Additionally, Rybakina seems to struggle with pressure, especially when the top ranking is at stake.

Jessica Pegula, the runner-up at the 2024 US Open, has been one of the most consistent players, reaching the final in Cincinnati after being the runner-up at the Washington DC Open. The youth of Coco Gauff also deserves mention, as the Wimbledon semi-finalist and Cincinnati finalist is delivering one of the best performances of her career, particularly in her serving, which could be a significant asset.

Iga Swiatek, who had a disastrous title defense at Wimbledon, managed to bounce back by winning the Canadian Open, although she was eliminated in the semi-finals in Cincinnati. Her recent performance suggests that the former champion still has plenty to offer.

Among the outsiders, Naomi Osaka is regaining her form, rising to 13th place in the rankings, while Alex Eala, who has challenged criticism about her serve, captured her first WTA title and reached the top 20. Eala has demonstrated that she can shine on big occasions, as shown in her matches at Wimbledon and Washington.

With the US Open on the horizon, the competition promises to be fierce, and the players will need to overcome their struggles and prove they are ready for battle. Sabalenka, despite the challenges, could still surprise and retain her crown, but the pressure is greater than ever.