Anna Kalinskaya defeated Elina Svitolina 6-3, 2-6, 6-3 in a thrilling third-round match at the 2026 US Open. Read the full match report and highlights here.
Anna Kalinskaya Outlasts Elina Svitolina in Thrilling US Open Clash
In a highly entertaining third-round match at the 2026 US Open, Anna Kalinskaya fought past ninth-seeded Elina Svitolina in a dramatic three-set battle. Playing under the bright lights at Louis Armstrong Stadium, the 21st-seeded Kalinskaya secured a hard-fought 6-3, 2-6, 6-3 victory. With this highly impressive win, Kalinskaya successfully advances to the fourth round, keeping her Grand Slam championship dreams fully alive in Flushing Meadows.
A Strong Start for Kalinskaya
The crucial encounter began with Kalinskaya displaying remarkable confidence and tactical precision. She came out firing from the baseline, using her powerful and accurate groundstrokes to constantly push the experienced Svitolina on the defensive. Breaking the Ukrainian star’s serve early, Kalinskaya took absolute control of the opening set. She effectively minimized her unforced errors and served with great placement when it mattered most, ultimately closing out the first set 6-3 with an impressive level of professional composure.
See also:Â Sorana Cirstea Powers Past Paolini 6-3, 6-3
Svitolina Fights Back with Brilliance
Elina Svitolina, widely known for her incredible fighting spirit and resilience, was certainly not ready to surrender. In the second set, the Ukrainian veteran dramatically raised her overall level of play. Svitolina started finding much better depth on her heavy shots and beautifully capitalized on a brief dip in Kalinskaya’s concentration. By breaking her opponent’s serve and drastically reducing her own unforced mistakes, Svitolina dominated the entire set. She comfortably won it 6-2, leveling the match and completely shifting the momentum in front of a very enthusiastic and loud New York crowd.
A Dramatic Final Set Comeback
The deciding third set proved to be an absolute rollercoaster of emotions for both players. Svitolina carried her second-set momentum forward and was the very first to strike, securing an early break of serve to take a commanding 3-2 lead. However, just as the match seemed to be slowly slipping away, the Russian dramatically shifted gears. Showing immense mental toughness and physical endurance, Kalinskaya broke right back and completely took over the tense contest. She brilliantly won four consecutive games, dismantling Svitolina’s stubborn defense with incredibly aggressive shot-making. Kalinskaya sealed the final set 6-3, claiming a massive upset victory.
With this brilliant performance, Kalinskaya earns a well-deserved spot in the second week of the US Open. She will next face the 26th-seeded American Emma Navarro in what promises to be another highly exciting matchup. Meanwhile, Svitolina exits the tournament despite a valiant and brave effort, leaving tennis fans with an absolutely unforgettable night of sporting action at Louis Armstrong Stadium.