Can Aryna Sabalenka Defend Her US Open Title Against Pegula?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Aryna Sabalenka is one match away from defending her US Open title.
- This marks her fifth consecutive semifinal appearance at the event.
- Pegula played a strong opening set but ultimately fell short.
- Sabalenka has reached her seventh Grand Slam final.
- She aims to replicate Serena Williams' achievement of consecutive titles.
New York, Sep 5 (NationPress) Top seed Aryna Sabalenka, the reigning champion of the US Open, triumphed over fourth seed Jessica Pegula in an exhilarating three-set semifinal match, winning 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 at Arthur Ashe Stadium to secure her spot in the final.
This marks Sabalenka's fifth consecutive semifinal appearance at the US Open, a feat last achieved by American tennis legend Serena Williams from 2011 to 2016.
With this victory, Sabalenka will compete in her seventh Grand Slam final—her fourth in the last five major tournaments and her third consecutive in New York—putting her just one win away from defending her US Open title.
The winner of the upcoming semifinal between Amanda Anisimova and Naomi Osaka awaits her, as Sabalenka aims to become the first player to win back-to-back US Open women’s singles titles since Serena Williams accomplished this feat from 2012 to 2014.
Pegula started strong, showcasing sharp and calculated play in the opening set, limiting herself to just three unforced errors and maintaining an aggressive return game, which captivated the crowd.
At 27, Sabalenka, who previously fell short in the finals of both the Australian Open and Roland Garros and in the Wimbledon semifinals, struck first in the second set, building an early 3-0 lead and forcing a decisive third set.
In the third set, Pegula faced a challenging moment at 30-40 on her serve, ultimately sending a forehand long. Although she put pressure on Sabalenka, especially during a lengthy sixth game, she could convert only two of seven break points throughout the match.
As Sabalenka served for the match at 5-4, 40-30, she hit a routine overhead into the net. Pegula saved one match point but could not fend off a second, succumbing after two hours and five minutes of intense competition.
“It was a really tough match. She played incredible tennis. I had to work really hard to secure this win. I’m thrilled to have overcome Jess, as she is an outstanding player and a fierce competitor. These matches are always intense. I'm incredibly happy to reach the final again,” expressed Sabalenka.