Aryna Sabalenka stormed into the WTA Finals semi-finals with a commanding 7-6(5), 6-2 win over Coco Gauff in Riyadh, avenging her French Open final loss earlier this year.
The world number one overcame a slow start, showcasing her trademark power and composure to top the Stefanie Graf Group with a perfect record. Gauff’s exit confirmed there will be a first-time WTA Finals champion this year.
Sabalenka will now face Amanda Anisimova in a repeat of September’s US Open final, while Jessica Pegula—who defeated Jasmine Paolini 6-2, 6-3—will take on Elena Rybakina in the other semi.
“I just focused on staying in the zone and playing my game,” said Sabalenka after sealing her fourth straight WTA Finals semi-final appearance. The Belarusian remains in pursuit of her first-ever title at the season-ending event.
