Two-time defending champion Sabalenka powers past Pegula into US Open final

New York - Top seed Aryna Sabalenka advanced to the US Open final after a commanding 7-5, 6-2 victory over American third seed Jessica Pegula on Thursday. The Belarusian tennis star, aiming for her third consecutive US Open title, will face either second seed Elena Rybakina or fourth seed Coco Gauff, who will advance from the other semi-final.

Sabalenka showcased her powerful groundstrokes and dominant service game throughout the match, which included seven aces and 29 winners. The 28-year-old expressed her elation, stating, "I was so desperate to win. I wanted it so badly."

Both players displayed strong play in the first set, with Sabalenka taking an early lead at 6-5. Pegula struggled in the second set, dropping to 0-40 after a series of heavy groundstrokes from her opponent. Sabalenka capitalized on this momentum, breaking Pegula's serve in the third game of the set. The rest of the match proceeded without interruption until Pegula's final error, resulting in the loss of match point.