Aryna Sabalenka powered past defending champion Coco Gauff 7-6(5), 6-2 on Thursday to reach the semi-finals of the WTA Finals in Riyadh. The world number one’s victory secured Jessica Pegula’s place in the last four.
The Belarusian topped the Steffi Graf Group and will next face Amanda Anisimova in a rematch of their U.S. Open final. “She always makes me work hard,” Sabalenka said. “I enjoy playing against her and I enjoy the fights, so I’m excited for the match”.
Pegula, who finished second in the group, will take on Kazakhstan’s Elena Rybakina. The Wimbledon champion advanced as the best performer from the Serena Williams Group and remains in strong form heading into the semi-finals.
Gauff started brightly, breaking Sabalenka early to go 4-2 up. But the American’s momentum faded as Sabalenka saved break points and broke back for 5-5 with a sharp forehand winner. The Belarusian’s power and intensity began to overwhelm her opponent.
Sabalenka edged the tiebreak 7-5 and dominated the second set. She quickly built a 4-0 lead and never looked back. “I was trying to stay aggressive and find my rhythm,” she said. “I’m super happy with the performance and the win in straight sets”.
Leave a comment