Elena Rybakina moved to the top of the women's game after her run to the US Open semi-finals secured enough ranking points to displace Aryna Sabalenka, whose spell as world number one lasted 99 weeks.
The shift in the WTA rankings was confirmed as the US Open progressed, with Rybakina's performance at the Grand Slam ensuring she will assume the No. 1 position. Sabalenka had held the spot for nearly two years before being overtaken.
The change at the summit underlines how Grand Slam results continue to be decisive in the race for the top ranking. Reaching the latter stages of a major supplies a large points boost, and Rybakina’s run in New York proved sufficient to vault her to the highest position in the sport.
While the number one ranking is a landmark in any player’s career, it also brings heightened expectations at future tournaments. The new hierarchy reflects recent form and success on the biggest stages rather than a permanent status, and both players remain central figures as the season moves on.
The development will reshape seeding and the narrative heading into the remaining events of the year, as observers assess how long Rybakina can hold the top spot and whether Sabalenka will press to reclaim it at upcoming tournaments.