Rybakina's strong start with brilliant win over Kostyuk at US Open

Elena Rybakina leaves behind her physical issues and defeated Marta Kostyuk 6-2, 6-1 in the first round of the US Open.

The 4th seed once again entered a Grand Slam with physical concerns in the days leading up to the tournament and doubts about her level of play. Rybakina had withdrawn from the Cincinnati Open during her match with Jasmine Paolini in the round of 16.

The 2022 Wimbledon champion was competing in her fifth appearance in the main draw, with a record of 3-4 and never having progressed beyond the third round.

On the other side of the court was the 21-year-old Marta Kostyuk, currently ranked world No. 39. Kostyuk had suffered two defeats in the WTA 1000 events in Canada and Cincinnati, the latter being a first-round loss to Jasmine Paolini.

The Ukrainian was making her second main draw appearance at Flushing Meadows, having reached the third round in 2021.

First set started with high tension, as both players were pressuring each other's serves. Rybakina held her service in the opening game, and then three consecutive breaks occurred between the two players, with the Kazakhstani taking a 3-1 lead.

With the score at 5-2 and Kostyuk serving, they played a fifteen-point game that Rybakina eventually won on her fifth set point, giving her a 6-2 advantage.

In the second set, Rybakina secured an early break in the second game, taking a 3-0 lead. Although Kostyuk fought in each game, it wasn't enough to earn a break. In the sixth game, Rybakina capitalized on a break point to extend her lead to 5-1.

The 2022 Wimbledon champion was unwavering with her serve and eventually sealed the match with a commanding score of 6-2, 6-1.

In the second round, Rybakina will face the winner of the match between Panna Udvardy and Ajla Tomljanović.