Sabalenka seeks US Open redemption after frustrating season; Errani, Vavassori triumph

Aryna Sabalenka returns to the US Open as the reigning champion and bookmakers’ favourite, but her 2025 season has been anything but smooth sailing.

- 

The world number one arrives at Flushing Meadows with her ranking on the line and still chasing major silverware in 2025, having stumbled at the final hurdle in year’s first two Grand Slams before falling in the Wimbledon semifinals.

The year began with a gut-wrenching loss to Madison Keys in the Australian Open showpiece, followed by another runner-up finish to Coco Gauff at Roland Garros.

At Wimbledon, Sabalenka was denied again, this time in the semifinals by Amanda Anisimova, meaning the Belarusian has failed to reach a final since the French Open.

The year has been underwhelming compared to Sabalenka’s dominant 2024 season, when she lifted both the Australian and US Open titles, reinforcing her reputation as one of the most consistent and powerful players on tour.

The Belarusian, who broke through with her maiden major in Melbourne in 2023, had appeared to put her longstanding struggles with composure and consistency firmly behind her.

Her transformation, marked by improved emotional control and a more reliable serve, turned her into a formidable force.