Top-seeded Aryna Sabalenka advanced to the US Open final on Thursday with a commanding straight-sets victory over third-seeded Jessica Pegula. The Belarusian champion won 7-5, 6-2 on Arthur Ashe Stadium, extending her dominance over the American competitor and maintaining her quest for an unprecedented third consecutive title at the tournament.
Sabalenka’s performance showcased the powerful tennis that has defined her recent success. She delivered seven aces and 29 winners throughout the match, demonstrating both her serving prowess and aggressive groundstroke game. The 28-year-old broke through Pegula’s resistance late in the opening set before taking command in the second, where she capitalized on her opponent’s weaker second serve to secure the decisive break that ultimately sealed the contest.
If Sabalenka triumphs in Saturday’s championship match, she would join tennis legends Chris Evert and Serena Williams as the only women to accomplish three consecutive US Open victories. Her opponent will emerge from Thursday’s second semifinal between second-seeded Elena Rybakina and fourth-seeded Coco Gauff, the 2023 champion who previously defeated Sabalenka in a final meeting.
Sabalenka expressed satisfaction with her execution, stating her determination to reach the final motivated her dominant performance. Despite her impressive form throughout the match, she now faces the challenge of maintaining this momentum against formidable competition in the championship round.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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