Winning the US Open is already one of the toughest feats in tennis. But defending that title the following year? That puts a player in a truly elite group. Since the Open Era began in 1968, only 16 professional tennis players have managed to win consecutive US Open singles titles.
In 2025, Aryna Sabalenka joined this exclusive club after defeating Amanda Anisimova in the women’s final. Just a year earlier, she had beaten Jessica Pegula to win her first New York crown. With her victory, Sabalenka proved that she’s not just a powerhouse on the WTA Tour—she’s now a part of US Open history.
The Rarity of Back-to-Back Titles
Grand Slam tournaments test every aspect of a player: fitness, mental toughness, adaptability, and endurance. The US Open is even more demanding because of its late-season scheduling, rowdy New York crowd, and punishing hard courts.
That’s why winning consecutive titles is such a rare accomplishment. It requires not only peak performance across two years but also the ability to withstand pressure as the defending champion.
Men’s Players with Consecutive US Open Titles
Among the men, Roger Federer stands in a class of his own. Between 2004 and 2008, Federer captured five straight US Open titles, a record that may never be broken.
Here’s the full list of men who have achieved back-to-back US Open singles victories in the Open Era:
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Roger Federer – 2004–2008 (five in a row)
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Patrick Rafter – 1997–1998
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Pete Sampras – 1995–1996
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Stefan Edberg – 1991–1992
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Ivan Lendl – 1985–1987 (three in a row)
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Jimmy Connors – 1982–1983
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John McEnroe – 1979–1981 (three in a row)
Each of these legends carved out a dominant era at Flushing Meadows. From McEnroe’s fiery run in the early ’80s to Sampras’ clinical serving in the ’90s, every name on this list helped define men’s tennis.
Women’s Players with Consecutive US Open Titles
The women’s side is equally rich with champions who managed to defend their crown. The most dominant run belongs to Chris Evert, who won four straight titles between 1975 and 1978.
Here’s the list of women who have gone back-to-back in New York:
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Aryna Sabalenka – 2024–2025
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Serena Williams – 2012–2014 (three in a row)
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Kim Clijsters – 2009–2010
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Venus Williams – 2000–2001
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Monica Seles – 1991–1992
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Steffi Graf – 1988–1989, 1995–1996 (two separate streaks)
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Martina Navratilova – 1983–1984, 1986–1987
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Chris Evert – 1975–1978 (four in a row)
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Billie Jean King – 1971–1972
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Margaret Court – 1969–1970
This list highlights multiple generations of women’s tennis icons, from pioneers like Billie Jean King and Margaret Court to modern powerhouses like Serena Williams and now Aryna Sabalenka.
Why Back-to-Back Titles Matter
In tennis, one Slam can sometimes be explained as a hot streak or perfect draw. But two in a row? That shows dominance. Consecutive US Open champions prove they can handle the unique challenges of New York, thrive under pressure, and maintain peak form season after season.
For younger fans, Sabalenka’s win might feel like the start of a new chapter. For historians, it’s another reminder of how rare this achievement really is.
Final Thoughts
From Federer’s five-peat to Evert’s unmatched four straight titles, the history of back-to-back US Open winners is filled with legends who defined their era. With Aryna Sabalenka’s victory in 2025, tennis fans have a new name to add to this celebrated list.
As the sport continues to evolve, one thing remains true: defending a US Open crown is one of the hardest challenges in tennis—and those who succeed earn a place among the greats.
