U.S. Open fines: Aryna Sabalenka’s $7.5K racket smash and a rare first-round rule violation

Aryna Sabalenka, the outgoing world No. 1 and two-time defending U.S. Open champion, was fined $7,500 for racket abuse after smashing her racket during her final defeat to Elena Rybakina, who won 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 on Saturday at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Rybakina's victory ended Sabalenka's bid for a historic three-peat and elevated her to world No. 1. Sabalenka acknowledged the emotional outburst, saying she needed to release her frustration rather than suppress it, while the USTA confirmed 10 other players were also fined for racket abuse during the 2026 tournament.