Elena Rybakina v. Aryna Sabalenka 2026 US Open Final 'Championship Clinching' Match Point Tennis Ball | Set 3 | Rybakina First US Open Championship

Presented in this lot is the match‑point ball used in the 2026 US Open Finals match featuring Elena Rybakina v. Aryna Sabalenka at Arthur Ashe Stadium on September 12, 2026. 

Rybakina defeated Sabalenka in 3 sets with a final score of 6-4, 5-7, 6-2. This ball was the decisive shot that sealed the match and secured the win for Rybakina for her first US Open championship and only her 3rd major.

The win was significant for Rybakina. It was her second Grand Slam title of 2026, following her Australian Open win in January, and it made her the new World No. 1, overtaking Sabalenka. The victory also denied Sabalenka a three-peat as US Open champion, having won the title in 2024 and 2025.

Sabalenka had a strong match and a fantastic US Open run as well. The match was hard fought with Sabalenka taking the 2nd set in 7 points and keeping the game close throughout. While Rybakina pulled away at the end of the match, Sabalenka continued to show she is one of the best tennis players in the world, making the US Open Final for her 3rd year in a row.

This match featuring a young and budding star versus a 2-time US Open champ and 4-time grand slam winner was a spectacle for tennis fans. A metaphorical passing of the torch from a veteran star to the up and coming newly world number 1, Sabalenka v. Rybakina US Open Final match is one for the books.

The ball was secured on-site and authenticated by a Sotheby’s representative immediately following the match.