Elena Rybakina has become the new women's world number one after reaching the US Open semi-finals, ending Aryna Sabalenka's 99-week spell at the top of the rankings.
Key facts
- Elena Rybakina is the new women's world number one.
- She secured the ranking by reaching the US Open semi-finals.
- Her rise ends Aryna Sabalenka's 99-week reign at number one.
- The milestone was reported by the BBC.
Elena Rybakina has become the new women’s world number one after reaching the semi-finals of the US Open, according to the BBC. The result was enough to lift her to the top of the WTA rankings.
Her rise brings to an end the 99-week reign of Aryna Sabalenka, who had held the number one position before Rybakina’s run in New York.
Reaching the last four at one of tennis’s biggest tournaments proved decisive in reshaping the top of the women’s game, with Rybakina overtaking the previous leader on the strength of her performance.
The change at the summit of the rankings marks a significant moment in the current WTA season, ending a period of sustained dominance at the top spot that had lasted almost two years.
As reported by the BBC under the headline ‘Just a number’, Rybakina’s ascent underscores how deep runs at Grand Slam events can rapidly alter the competitive order in women’s tennis.
Why it matters
A change at world number one signals a shift in the balance of power in women's tennis after nearly two years of stability at the top. For fans and players alike, it reshapes expectations heading into the rest of the season.
Frequently asked questions
Who is the new women's world number one?
Elena Rybakina is the new women's world number one, according to the BBC.
How did Rybakina reach number one?
She reached the top of the rankings by advancing to the semi-finals of the US Open.
Whose reign at number one did Rybakina end?
Rybakina's rise ended Aryna Sabalenka's 99-week reign as world number one.