Sabalenka posts after US Open victory, praises Anisimova and supporters

Aryna Sabalenka posted on social media after defeating Amanda Anisimova to retain her US Open title Saturday at Flushing Meadows, sweeping the American 6-3, 7-6 (3) to claim the fourth Grand Slam of her career and the tournament's record $5 million prize.

The world No. 1 used an Instagram message to thank supporters and to praise her 24-year-old opponent, who was in tears after the loss. Less than three months after Anisimova eliminated Sabalenka from Wimbledon at the semi-final stage, Sabalenka prevailed in front of a capacity crowd in New York.

"I'm speechless right now," Sabalenka wrote, reflecting on a season she described as challenging. In the post she said the victory justified "all of the tough lessons I've learned this past season" and called holding the trophy again "beyond my wildest dream." She singled out Anisimova, writing: "Amanda Anisimova you are incredible and played your heart out this tournament. Keep going."

Sabalenka also thanked fans for their support and acknowledged her travelling team. "To my team, I wouldn't be here without you — but don't forget you wouldn't be here without me. You are my backbone," she wrote, adding, "Team Tiger forever."

The triumph comes after a year that included runner-up finishes at the French Open and the Australian Open, tournaments in which Sabalenka said she had lost control of her emotions. She told reporters she was determined not to repeat that pattern in New York. "After those two finals where I completely lost control over my emotions, I just didn't want that to happen again," she said. "There were a few moments when I was this close to just let it go. I was like 'C'mon now, you have to stay focused. Keep going, keep trying.'"

Sabalenka, 27, asserted that maintaining that mindset will be central to her approach in future finals. The victory bolsters her status at the top of the rankings and marks a financial milestone for the tournament with the largest prize in its history.

Anisimova, playing before a supportive home crowd, showed emotion on court after the match. Sabalenka's public encouragement followed that scene and closed a chapter that began when Anisimova beat her at Wimbledon in June. The US Open win provided Sabalenka a measure of on-court redemption and the first major title defense of her career.

Tournament officials and commentators noted Sabalenka's improved emotional control and tactical discipline during the match, factors she credited to the lessons of the season. The victory also highlights the continuing depth on the women's tour, where recent months have produced multiple first-time major contenders alongside established champions.

Sabalenka said she hopes to apply the same plan and mindset in future finals and expressed a desire to reach more championship matches. Her Instagram post underlined both personal relief after a difficult run of results and an outward recognition of competitors and supporters who helped shape the season.