Rybakina dispels fitness doubts with commanding U.S. Open opener

NEW YORK — Elena Rybakina answered questions about her physical condition with an emphatic performance at Flushing Meadows, defeating Frodin 6-3, 6-2 in their first-round encounter. The victory marked a decisive start to the tournament for the second-seeded Kazakhstani player, who had faced scrutiny over potential fitness issues heading into the U.S. Open.

Rybakina's clinical execution on court suggested the player is ready to mount a serious campaign for the Grand Slam title. Her composed display against the American competitor, a crowd favourite in New York, underscored her ability to control rallies and dictate play throughout the match.

The straightforward nature of the win provides Rybakina with momentum as she progresses deeper into the tournament. Her advancement to the second round comes ahead of increasingly challenging matchups against higher-ranked opposition in subsequent rounds. The 26-year-old's demonstration of form and fitness will likely ease concerns within her camp about her readiness for the demanding week ahead at the year's final Grand Slam event.