Aryna Sabalenka continued her bid for another US Open title with a straight-sets victory over Taylor Townsend on Day 8 in New York. The defending champion overcame a difficult challenge from the American 6-4, 6-3 to book her place in the quarter-finals.
Sabalenka defeats Townsend at the US Open
The Sabalenka vs Townsend match proved competitive despite the final score. Aryna Sabalenka had to recover from an early setback in the second set before taking control and closing out the match.
Sabalenka won the opening set 6-4, but Taylor Townsend responded strongly in the second. The American broke for a 3-1 advantage, putting pressure on the world number one. Sabalenka immediately fought back, breaking Townsend’s serve and then producing another run of games to regain momentum.
The defending champion eventually completed the victory 6-4, 6-3. A fortunate net-cord return helped Sabalenka secure match point, ending Townsend’s hopes of reaching her first Grand Slam singles quarter-final.
Sabalenka praises Townsend after tough contest
Following the match, Sabalenka highlighted the qualities that made Taylor Townsend such a difficult opponent. She pointed to Townsend’s aggressive approach at the net, strong returning and movement around the court.
Sabalenka also acknowledged the home crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium, noting that she expected much of the support to go toward Townsend but appreciated the moments when the crowd backed her as well.
The result keeps Sabalenka US Open title hopes firmly alive. She is now into the last eight and remains focused on another deep run at Flushing Meadows.
Noskova and Kostyuk battle for a quarter-final place
Sabalenka’s next opponent will be either Linda Nosková or Marta Kostyuk, who met in a rematch of their Wimbledon semi-final.
The match between Noskova and Kostyuk was closely contested early on. Noskova broke first, Kostyuk responded, and the pair continued trading momentum. The Czech player eventually edged the opening set 7-5 and moved within a set of the quarter-finals.
The matchup carries extra significance because Linda Nosková defeated Marta Kostyuk in the Wimbledon semi-final before going on to win her maiden Grand Slam singles title.
Kostyuk has also enjoyed an impressive 2026 season, including a WTA 1000 title in Madrid and semi-final appearances at both the French Open and Wimbledon.
What comes next for Sabalenka?
With Taylor Townsend now eliminated, Sabalenka turns her attention to the quarter-finals. Her next opponent will come from the Noskova vs Kostyuk contest, creating an intriguing clash between the defending champion and one of two players who have already made a major impact at Grand Slam level this season.
For fans following the US Open schedule and US Open today, Sabalenka’s progression is one of the major storylines from the women’s draw. Her 6-4, 6-3 victory keeps her championship defence on track and moves her another step closer to the final.
Sabalenka vs Townsend at a glance
- Winner: Aryna Sabalenka
- Opponent: Taylor Townsend
- Score: 6-4, 6-3
- Round: US Open fourth round
- Result: Sabalenka advances to the quarter-finals
- Next possible opponents: Linda Nosková or Marta Kostyuk
- Tournament: 2026 US Open
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