7th September 2026 – (New York) Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz secured his place in the US Open quarterfinals for the fifth time after a convincing straight sets victory over 20th seed Tommy Paul. The Spanish star delivered an assured performance with a 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 scoreline, expressing satisfaction with his current form and emphasising the importance of adapting his strategy throughout the match.
Meanwhile, world number one Aryna Sabalenka continued her dominant run at Flushing Meadows by defeating American Taylor Townsend 6-4, 6-3 to reach the last eight for a remarkable sixth consecutive year. The match opened with both players exchanging service breaks through the first five games, before Sabalenka took control to go ahead 5-2 in the first set. Townsend managed to win two games in succession, but Sabalenka served out the set with a forehand winner. Townsend initially broke serve in the second set to lead 3-1, yet Sabalenka responded emphatically, winning five straight games to complete her victory.
Sabalenka, who has held the world number one ranking for ninety-nine consecutive weeks – the sixth longest streak in history – reflected on the pressures at the top. She pointed out the significant mental and physical demands of maintaining such a high level in elite tennis, remarking that staying focused and not dwelling on outside expectations is crucial to sustained performance.
Looking ahead, Sabalenka will meet sixth seed Linda Noskova of the Czech Republic, who advanced to her maiden US Open quarterfinal after overcoming Marta Kostyuk of Ukraine in three sets, 7-5, 5-7, 6-4. Sabalenka praised Noskova’s aggressive game style and strong serving, noting that adjusting to her speed and power would be essential.
In other action, third seed Jessica Pegula advanced to her third straight US Open quarterfinal with a 6-3, 6-4 victory over Romania’s Sorana Cirstea. On the men’s side, the American contingent continues to perform strongly, with 11th seed Frances Tiafoe overcoming seventh seed Daniil Medvedev of Russia 7-6 (1), 6-4, 7-6 (6), setting up a meeting with fellow American Alex Michelsen, who dispatched Tomas Martin Etcheverry of Argentina in straight sets.