Aryna Sabalenka came through an unconvincing win over Taylor Townsend to reach the US Open quarter-finals, retaining the world No 1 ranking and keeping her title defence on track.
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Key facts
- Aryna Sabalenka beat Taylor Townsend to reach the US Open quarter-finals.
- The win keeps Sabalenka at world No 1.
- It is Sabalenka's sixth straight US Open quarter-final appearance.
- Sabalenka is the two-time defending champion at the tournament.
- The BBC noted the run emulates Serena Williams.
Aryna Sabalenka is still standing at the US Open after edging past Taylor Townsend to reach the tournament’s quarter-finals, according to Sky Sports and the BBC.
Sky Sports described the victory as “unconvincing,” reporting that Sabalenka is “clinging on” to both her US Open title and her position as world No 1 following the tricky contest.
The BBC framed the result as a milestone, noting that the two-time defending champion reached a sixth straight US Open quarter-final with the win over Townsend.
According to the BBC, the achievement sees Sabalenka emulate Serena Williams, underlining the consistency of her recent record at the tournament.
With the win secured, Sabalenka retains the world No 1 ranking and remains in contention to defend her US Open crown as the tournament progresses.
Both outlets characterised the match as a genuine test, with Townsend pushing the top seed before Sabalenka ultimately came through.
Why it matters
Sabalenka's win keeps the world's top-ranked player on course to defend her US Open title while holding on to the No 1 spot. Reaching a sixth consecutive quarter-final at the same Grand Slam highlights a level of consistency previously matched by Serena Williams.
Frequently asked questions
Who did Aryna Sabalenka beat to reach the US Open quarter-finals?
Sabalenka beat Taylor Townsend, according to Sky Sports and the BBC.
Did Sabalenka keep her world No 1 ranking?
Yes. Sky Sports reported the win allowed Sabalenka to retain the world No 1 spot.
Why is this quarter-final significant for Sabalenka?
The BBC noted it is her sixth straight US Open quarter-final, a run that emulates Serena Williams, and she is the two-time defending champion.
Timeline
- Sabalenka overcomes tricky Townsend test at US Open
BBC Sport: Two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka emulates Serena Williams by overcoming Taylor Townsend to reach a sixth straight US Open quarter-final.
- Sabalenka edges Townsend to reach US Open quarters and retain No 1 spot
Sky Sports News: Aryna Sabalenka is clinging on to her US Open title and the world No 1 spot after an unconvincing win over Taylor Townsend.