Raducanu came into the New York encounter against Rybakina riding a wave of optimism.
A productive season, where she has spent more time on court and looked increasingly resilient, has put her on the verge of climbing back into the world’s top 30.
Raducanu’s ranking has not been higher since September 2022 – when her mountain of points for winning the US Open fell off.
But she fell just short of earning a seeding at Flushing Meadows, which left her open to facing a highly-ranked player early in the draw.
“I’ve lost to Iga twice, Aryna, and Elena, so it’s tough,” Raducanu said.
“But at the same time, that’s where I’m at with my ranking. I can play top opponents in the first, second, or third round.
“So I’ve just got to do my best in the next few months until Australia to just keep working to try and close the gap.”
Twice pushing Sabalenka – taking her to three sets in Cincinnati less than a month after their Wimbledon meeting – were further signs of encouragement.
However, the chastening defeat by world number nine Rybakina, who hit the Briton off court with a flurry of excoriating winners, was a reminder of how she still needs to improve.
It meant Raducanu has now won just three of her 18 career matches against top-10 opponents.
“Depending on the day, depending on how we match up, I think I’m getting better overall,” she said.
“I think I’m improving for sure in the last few months. I just need to keep consistent and put this one behind.”
