Elena Rybakina advanced to the third round of the 2026 US Open on Thursday by defeating Jessica Bouzas Maneiro in straight sets, 6-2, 6-4. The victory brings Rybakina closer to claiming the world No. 1 spot in the WTA rankings.
Rybakina Overcomes Challenge to Secure Straight-Sets Win
The tournament’s No. 2 seed dominated the opening set, closing it out in under 30 minutes with consistent pressure from the baseline. Maintaining her momentum, she surged ahead to a 5-3 lead in the second set. However, Bouzas Maneiro fought back, breaking Rybakina’s serve for the first time in the match to narrow the gap to 5-4.
Despite this brief challenge, Rybakina quickly regained control, breaking back immediately to seal the match. This marked the first service game she had lost during the tournament in Queens, but her ability to respond promptly proved decisive.
Following the match, Rybakina expressed satisfaction with her performance, noting that she was “very proud” of her form through the initial rounds, especially considering the limited preparation preceding the event.
Entering the US Open, questions lingered around Rybakina’s fitness after she retired hurt in the quarterfinals of Cincinnati. Having already secured two victories in New York, she has alleviated concerns about her physical condition. With three more wins, she stands to surpass Aryna Sabalenka and ascend to the top of the WTA rankings.
Rybakina’s next opponent will be Yuliia Starodubtseva of Ukraine, presenting another familiar challenge as she aims to continue her strong run in the tournament.