(Reuters) -Aryna Sabalenka returns to the U.S. Open as the reigning champion and bookmakers' favourite, but her 2025 season has been anything but smooth sailing.

Iga Swiatek has returned to her elite status, not to mention returned to No. 2 in the rankings, behind only Aryna Sabalenka and ahead of Coco Gauff.

The top three in the rankings — No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, No. 2 Iga Swiatek and No. 3 Coco Gauff — have won the past three ...