ISLAMABAD: World number one Aryna Sabalenka retained her U.S. Open title on Saturday, defeating American Amanda Anisimova 6-3, 7-6 (7-3) in straight sets at Arthur Ashe Stadium to claim her fourth Grand Slam crown.

This title marks Sabalenka’s second straight title in New York, making her the first woman since Serena Williams to win back-to-back US Opens.

The Belarusian-based champion entered the match after losses in the Australian and French Open finals earlier this year.

'Super proud of myself'

“Going into this final, I decided for myself that I’m going to control my emotions. I’m not going to let them take control over me,” she told Reuters after the win. She added, “I’m super proud right now of myself.”

Anisimova, playing in her second Slam final, admitted the home atmosphere helped her stay in the match.

“They were really backing me, and I think that was really helpful to try and stay in the match,” she said in comments reported by AP. She added that the closed roof made serving difficult, saying, “I could not see the ball when I was serving… that made my serving today very, very difficult.”

100th Grand Slam win

The victory marked Sabalenka’s 100th Grand Slam match win as she celebrated with champagne and a pat on her trainer’s head.

With the title in hand, Sabalenka reinforced her reputation as the “queen of hardcourts,” Reuters reported. “All those tough lessons were worth it for this one,” she said. “I’m speechless right now.”

Amanda Anisimova

US Open finalist Anisimova beats Noskova to win Beijing title

Sabalenka stands undefeated: retains US Open crown