Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka has dropped her first set of the 2026 US Open, with her quarter-final match against Linda Nosková now heading into a deciding set at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The top seed was pushed hard by Nosková, who levelled the match after Sabalenka had initially secured the first set via a tie-break, marking the first set Sabalenka has lost at this year’s tournament.
First Set Battle Goes to Sabalenka
Aryna Sabalenka claimed the opening set against Linda Nosková, but not without significant challenge. Sabalenka initially took a 5-2 lead before Nosková fought back, forcing a tie-break. The world number one then showcased her renowned tie-break prowess, having won 22 of her past 23 at Grand Slam level, to secure the set. According to The New York Times, Sabalenka raced to a 5-0 lead in the tie-break with some aggressive hitting, eventually closing it out with an excellent serve.
Nosková Fights Back to Take Second Set
Linda Nosková mounted a strong comeback in the second set, breaking Sabalenka and ultimately taking it 6-3. The Czech player saved multiple break points throughout the set, demonstrating resilience despite what former British number one Annabel Croft on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra described as perhaps not her “best tennis” early on. Nosková’s tactics, including well-placed drop shots and strong serving, began to put her in charge, according to the BBC. Sabalenka, who had three break points in the second set and failed to convert any, netted a backhand on game point, allowing Nosková to level the match.
Ranking Implications and Further Quarter-Finals
The outcome of this match has potential implications for Aryna Sabalenka’s world number one ranking. She will lose the top spot if Elena Rybakina reaches the last four of the tournament. Following Sabalenka’s match, the US Open quarter-finals continue with 11th seed Frances Tiafoe facing fellow American Alex Michelsen, who is bidding to reach his third US Open semi-final. Later, Jessica Pegula meets Emma Navarro in the women’s draw, while Carlos Alcaraz and Ben Shelton are set to compete in another headline men’s match.
