Aryna Sabalenka took to social media after defeating Amanda Anisimova to retain her US Open title on Saturday.
Less than three months after Anisimova dumped her out of Wimbledon at the semi-final stage, the world No 1 had her chance at redemption in front of a capacity crowd at Flushing Meadows.
Ultimately Sabalenka proved too much for the home favourite, sweeping the 24-year-old aside with a 6-3, 7-6 (3) win to claim the fourth grand slam title of her career.
In doing so, Sabalenka claimed a record $5million (£3.7m) prize – the biggest in the history of the competition.
After claiming victory, the 27-year-old took to social media to heap praise on her supporters after what has been a challenging year.
‘I’m speechless right now,’ Sabalenka wrote on Instagram.
‘All of the tough lessons I’ve learned this past season… this win makes it all worth it. It’s beyond my wildest dream to be holding this trophy again.
‘Amanda Anisimova you are incredible and played your heart out this tournament. Keep going.
‘To the fans, thank you for your support. I hear you and see you, and having you behind me cheering me on, at my highs and lows, is what pushes me to do my best every time I step on the court. Team Tiger forever.
‘To my team, I wouldn’t be here without you —but don’t forget you wouldn’t be here without me. You are my backbone.
‘The unwavering support you give me, traveling with me around the world, being by my side 24/7, 365 days a year. This trophy is also yours. And New York, I love you.’
The triumph comes as a relief for Sabalenka who suffered disappointing defeats this year in the finals of both the French Open and the Australian Open.
‘After those two finals where I completely lost control over my emotions, I just didn’t want that to happen again,’ Sabalenka said.
‘There were a few moments when I was this close to just let it go. I was like “C’mon now, you have to stay focused. Keep going, keep trying.” It’s really helped me.
‘I think I have to keep the same mindset every time – hopefully I’m going to make many more finals – so every time I’m in the final, I have to stick to the same plan.’
