Astana [Kazakhstan], September 2: No. 2 seed Elena Rybakina shook off a four-hour rain delay, injury concerns, the pressure of chasing the World No. 1 ranking and a big-hitting young opponent to ease through her US Open first round, defeating 17-year-old wild card Thea Frodin 6-3, 6-2 in 1 hour and 14 minutes.
Rybakina had not played since a left ankle injury forced her to retire during her Cincinnati quarterfinal against Iga Swiatek two weeks ago. Ahead of the US Open, she declared that she "should be very fine" by the time she had to play.
At stake this fortnight could be the Australian Open champion's rise to No. 1 for the first time. She needs to reach the semifinals to guarantee it, though if neither Aryna Sabalenka, Jessica Pegula or Coco Gauff win the title, she will become No. 1 regardless of her own results. (WTA)
Source: Qatar Tribune
