Aryna Sabalenka begins the defence of her US Open title on day one in New York - but 'insensitive' footage of her near miss two years ago drew widespread criticism.

The world No.1 has been dominant on the WTA Tour this year, but is yet to add to her three career Grand Slam singles titles - losing in tour of the three major finals this year.

After beating home favourite Jessica Pegula 7-5 7-5 to win at Flushing Meadow 12 months ago, Sabalenka has lost to Coco Gauff in the French Open and Madison Keys in the Australian Open finals this year.

It has given her a career record of three wins and three defeats in Grand Slam finals - and her first defeat on the biggest stage was in the Big Apple.

In 2023, the Belarusian lost 6-2, 3-6, 6-2 to Gauff, who claimed her first Grand Slam tit

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