Sabalenka Edges Noskova in US Open Quarter-Final Thriller

World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka survived a major scare from Linda Noskova to advance to the US Open semi-finals on September 8, 2026. The defending champion, seeking a third consecutive title in New York, needed a final-set tie-break to secure a 7-6(1), 3-6, 7-6(5) victory after nearly three hours of play.

Sabalenka had not dropped a set in the tournament until this match. The Guardian's live report detailed a contest of immense power and tension, where both players combined for over 30 aces. Noskova, the reigning Wimbledon champion, fought back from a set down to force a decider under the closed roof of Arthur Ashe Stadium.

First Set Tie-Break Dominance

Sabalenka claimed the opening set in a one-sided tie-break. She raced to a 6-0 lead before Noskova saved one set point, ultimately closing it out 7-1. The win extended Sabalenka's remarkable record in grand slam tie-breaks; the source noted she had now won 22 of her past 23 at major tournaments.

Noskova responded immediately in the second set. She broke Sabalenka's serve in the sixth game, capitalizing on a double fault from the top seed to lead 4-2. The Czech player's serving was formidable, and she sealed the set 6-3 with an ace down the middle, handing Sabalenka her first lost set of the fortnight.

Deciding Set Drama

The final set was a tense affair with both players holding serve until the 12th game. Sabalenka earned three break points at 0-40 on Noskova's serve at 4-4 but needed just one as Noskova sent a slice long. However, Noskova broke straight back in the following game, converting her fourth break point after a series of errors from Sabalenka to level at 5-5.

Noskova then held serve with a love game to force Sabalenka to serve to stay in the match at 5-6. Sabalenka did so, sending the quarter-final to a decisive tie-break. The source described the climax: "Both players are up to the net immediately … and Noskova is the winner before sending a backhand down the line. She leads 2-0."

Match Statistics

The live text highlighted key serving stats throughout the match, illustrating the high level of play from both competitors.

Sabalenka regained her composure in the tie-break after falling behind early. She fought back to 3-3 at the change of ends. The match concluded with Sabalenka firing an ace to win the tie-break 7-5 and the match. The report stated simply, "Sabalenka sends down an ace in response. She leads 7-5."

The victory sets up a semi-final for Sabalenka as she continues her quest for a US Open three-peat. The men's quarter-final between Francis Tiafoe and Alex Michelsen was scheduled to follow on court.