World number one Aryna Sabalenka moved into the US Open quarterfinals with a 6-4, 6-3 victory over American Taylor Townsend.
Sabalenka is pursuing a third consecutive title at Flushing Meadows. She controlled the fourth-round match in straight sets and remained on course in the final Grand Slam tournament of the season.
American Jessica Pegula also booked a place in the last eight, while Linda Noskova advanced after a three-set contest against Marta Kostyuk. Noskova won 7-5, 5-7, 6-4.
The women’s draw is moving into its decisive stage, with Sabalenka carrying the top ranking and the pressure of defending her title. Reaching the quarterfinals keeps the possibility of a third straight championship alive, but four players will still have to win their next match to make the semifinals.
In the men’s draw, Carlos Alcaraz beat Tommy Paul in straight sets. The Spaniard was playing after a four-month injury layoff and continued his return with a place in the next round.
Sabalenka’s result was the central outcome of the session: a two-set win over a home player and another step in a title defence that has made her the player to beat in New York.
The quarterfinal schedule and match-ups will determine her next opponent and route through the second week of the tournament.
