🎾 The WTA Finals in Riyadh served up a blockbuster semifinal as World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus battled past fourth-ranked Amanda Anisimova of the USA 6-3, 3-6, 6-3.
This marks Sabalenka’s first WTA Finals final appearance in three years. Next up? A title showdown on Saturday against first-time finalist Elena Rybakina.
Rybakina, the 2022 Wimbledon champion from Kazakhstan, cruised into her maiden final by edging Jessica Pegula 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, firing 15 aces to seal the win.
The Sabalenka–Anisimova clash was a two-hour slugfest. The opening set alone lasted 60 minutes, with Anisimova creating five break chances but coughing up 24 unforced errors. She bounced back in set two, breaking thrice to force a decider.
In the third set, Sabalenka seized a pivotal break to grab a 4-3 lead and never looked back.
“Honestly, I wouldn't care if I lost because we played an incredible match and both of us deserve this place in the finals,” Sabalenka said. “That was an incredible fight and I'm super happy to get the win.”
On the other side, Rybakina leaned on her booming serve and clutch play. “It was not easy to come back, but I’m glad I found my way in the second set and won this three-set battle,” she said. “The serve, when I needed it, helped me.”
Get ready for a final that promises fireworks! 💥 Who will lift the WTA Finals trophy? Stay tuned! 😎
Reference(s):
Sabalenka tops Anisimova, lines up Rybakina for WTA Finals title match
cgtn.com
