Rybakina powers past Zheng to secure US Open semis berth and world number one ranking

Second seed Elena Rybakina advanced to the US Open semifinals on Wednesday after overcoming Chinese player Zheng Qinwen in a hard-fought quarterfinal encounter at Flushing Meadows. The Kazakhstani star's commanding performance, highlighted by 20 winners, proved decisive in breaking down her opponent's resistance despite struggling early in the match.

Rybakina's progression to the final four marks a significant milestone in her season, as the victory simultaneously secured the world number one ranking on the WTA Tour. The achievement caps a strong campaign for the 25-year-old, who has established herself among the sport's elite competitors.

The quarterfinal result extends Rybakina's impressive run at the tournament and sets the stage for a compelling semifinal matchup. Her clinical display of power and precision tennis demonstrated why she has emerged as a formidable contender in the sport's hierarchy.

Rybakina will now face a fresh challenge in the semifinals as she seeks to advance further in pursuit of the US Open title.