World No.1 Raybakina Secures First US Open Final Spot

NEW YORK — In a compelling semifinal at Arthur Ashe Stadium, world No. 1 Elena Raybakina earned her inaugural US Open final berth by beating Coco Goff in three sets, 3‑6, 6‑4, 6‑4. The 27‑year‑old from Kazakhstan demonstrated why she tops the rankings, turning a shaky start into a masterclass comeback.

Goff’s strong opening set left many spectators convinced she would progress. Raybakina, however, remained unfazed, tightening her service games and exploiting Goff’s moments of vulnerability. A decisive break in the second set allowed her to level the match, and she maintained the edge throughout the third.

The decisive set featured a series of long baseline exchanges. Raybakina’s deep, angled shots forced Goff into defensive positions, and a critical break at 5‑4 gave her the lead she needed to close out the match.

After the match, Raybakina praised Goff’s athleticism but emphasized the importance of staying patient and capitalizing on key opportunities. She now prepares for a final against Aryna Sabalenka, eager to capture her first Grand Slam title on the hard courts of New York.