The victory sets up a high-stakes championship match on Saturday, where Sabalenka will attempt to achieve a feat not seen in New York since Serena Williams completed a three-peat between 2012 and 2014. Having navigated the draw with consistent power, the world number one demonstrated her ability to elevate her game during the most critical moments of the contest.
A decisive shift in momentum
For much of the first set, the match remained a tightly contested affair as both players struggled to establish a clear advantage. However, Sabalenka eventually found the breakthrough required to edge ahead, utilizing her aggressive baseline game to put pressure on her opponent. As the match progressed into the second set, the top seed began to dictate play more effectively, particularly by attacking Pegula’s second serve.
This tactical adjustment allowed Sabalenka to pull away, turning the second set into arguably her most commanding stretch of tennis throughout the entire tournament. By maintaining her intensity and limiting unforced errors, she successfully neutralized Pegula’s defensive efforts and closed out the match in straight sets.
Eyes on the championship trophy
With her place in the final now confirmed, Sabalenka awaits the conclusion of the other semifinal match to determine her next opponent. She will face either the second-seeded Elena Rybakina or the fourth-seeded Coco Gauff on Saturday. Regardless of the outcome of that match, the upcoming final represents a significant opportunity for Sabalenka to further solidify her standing in the history of the event.
