Aryna Sabalenka was totally conscious she must win the US Open to face any probability of stopping Elena Rybakina overtaking her as world primary.
Even that may not essentially be sufficient. And because the pair put together to satisfy in Saturday’s ultimate, Sabalenka is aware of her 99-week keep on the prime of the world rankings is at an finish.
Kazakhstan’s Rybakina is assured of changing Sabalenka on the prime of the rankings, guaranteeing that by reaching the semi-finals.
Having additionally overwhelmed the Belarusian to win this yr’s Australian Open title, Rybakina now has the chance to inflict additional injury.
However that gives further motivation for Sabalenka earlier than their fourth assembly of the yr.
“It’s going to be crimson rag to a bull for her – she is just not going to be pleased,” mentioned former British primary Annabel Croft on BBC Radio 5 Reside.
“Now she has the chance to finish this yr on a excessive.”
Sabalenka, who has overwhelmed Rybakina in Indian Wells and Miami for the reason that Melbourne ultimate, nonetheless has historical past in her sights as she bids to turn out to be solely the third lady within the Open period to win the New York singles title three years in a row.
The four-time Grand Slam champion’s victory over American third seed Jessica Pegula within the semi-finals was her most interesting show in months, taking part in with a hearth and freedom that had been lacking beforehand.
Afterwards, Sabalenka performed down the importance of shedding her rating, joking she didn’t care about it.
However she clearly does. Sabalenka’s coach Anton Dubrov mentioned as a lot when he spoke about how the difficulty has been hanging over her.
“I truly like this [losing the ranking] occurred. It is ended and it is further gas,” Dubrov mentioned.
“There isn’t any extra further draining [of mental energy] or occupied with it.
“There is a subsequent chapter proper now. You need to chase once more. It is further motivation for you. Simply go and get it.”