Aryna Sabalenka racked up $7,500 in penalties during a volatile US Open 2026 final against Elena Rybakina. The two-time defending champion received a ball abuse warning, a racket abuse code violation, and an audible obscenity citation… all in one match.
What Led to Aryna Sabalenka's Racket Smash Penalty?
The trouble started in the first set after Rybakina broke Sabalenka's serve. Sabalenka launched a ball into the stands, prompting chair umpire Greg Allensworth to issue a warning. She struck another ball in frustration later in the match, that time nearly hitting a cameraman.
After Rybakina closed out the match 6-4, 5-7, 6-2, Sabalenka returned to her bench area and hammered her racket against the ground. Then, she cursed at a camera operator ahead of the trophy presentation.
"It's really tough to control your emotions when you lose in the final of the Grand Slam," Sabalenka said afterward. "I wanted to let all of that aggression and disappointment."
The USTA fine will be deducted from her $2.8 million in runner-up prize money. Still, the financial hit is minor compared to what Sabalenka lost on court.
Rybakina's win, her third Grand Slam title, ended Sabalenka's 20-match US Open winning streak and her three-peat bud. It also knocked her from the WTA's No. 1 ranking after 99 weeks on top.
