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US Open organisers have fined Aryna Sabalenka $7,500 (£5,569) after her conduct during the women’s singles final against Elena Rybakina.
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The Belarusian smashed her racket on court on multiple occasions and was heard directing an expletive at a cameraman following her defeat in the championship match.
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Sabalenka’s emotional afternoon in New York ended with more than a fine as Rybakina defeated her 6-4, 5-7, 6-2, denying the defending champion a historic third consecutive US Open title.
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The tournament issued $112,500 (£83,520) in fines to 18 players, with several others punished for obscenities, dress-code violations and equipment abuse.
September 15, (THEWILL) – Aryna Sabalenka has been fined $7,500 (£5,569)for her conduct during the US Open final against Elena Rybakina, adding a financial punishment to an already painful afternoon for the defending champion.
Sabalenka arrived in New York attempting to complete a historic three-peat after winning the tournament in 2024 and 2025.
Instead, she surrendered her title to Rybakina in a tense three-set battle and also lost her position as WTA world No.1.
The Belarusian struggled to contain her frustration throughout the match, with her emotions becoming increasingly visible as the contest slipped away.
Her behaviour has now resulted in a fine from tournament organisers for violating the US Open’s code of conduct.
Sabalenka’s frustration first became evident during the second set at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
After a difficult passage of play, the four-time Grand Slam champion smashed her racket against the court.
Despite the outburst, she managed to regain her composure sufficiently to win the set and force the match into a decider.
Earlier in the contest, she had also received a warning from umpire Greg Allensworth after striking a ball away in frustration following a double fault and the loss of her serve.
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But the tension returned with greater force once Rybakina secured the championship.
Sabalenka smashed her racket again after the final set, before her anger spilled over towards a cameraman.
The Belarusian was heard shouting an expletive at the cameraman as the disappointment of losing the final became apparent.
The incident subsequently formed part of the conduct violation that resulted in her $7,500 fine.
Olumide Atiba is a sports journalist with THEWILL, known for his keen news sense and compelling storytelling. He has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, well-structured reports that resonate with readers, with a strong focus on football coverage
