New Delhi, Sept. 15 -- Still, it wouldn't have felt quite the same to pass Aryna Sabalenka and become No. 1 in a tournament where Sabalenka then beat Rybakina to defend her title. It would not only have been confusing to casual fans, but a letdown to the player.

Nothing to worry about there. Rybakina was too good for Sabalenka and anyone else in the sport right now, so her 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 victory Sunday triggered a dual celebration.

"I feel that it's going to be amazing to wake up knowing that you achieved such big things," Rybakina said.

There could be more to come. The 27-year-old who was born in Russia but represents Kazakhstan is on top of her game, with two Grand Slam titles in 2026. She beat Sabalenka in both finals, and even the f...