A thrilling WTA Finals semi-final saw Belarusian powerhouse Aryna Sabalenka emerge victorious against her American rival Amanda Anisimova. This pulsating encounter sets the stage for a championship showdown with Kazakhstan's Elena Rybakina, who earlier overcame a tough battle against Jessica Pegula.
Sabalenka, a four-time major champion, dominated with 12 aces and a solid defense, saving crucial break points to secure her spot in the final for the second time in five appearances.
"She brings out the best in me," Sabalenka said of Anisimova, adding, "I'm thrilled to be in the final, but honestly, I wouldn't have minded if either of us won. We both played an exceptional match and deserve this opportunity."
Both Sabalenka and Rybakina are undefeated this week, and a victory in Saturday's final could earn them a record-breaking $5.235 million.
Rybakina, who claimed her 10th consecutive win by beating Pegula, expressed surprise at her success. "I had no expectations coming here. I was tired after a strong Asian tour, so I just wanted to give it my all. I never imagined I'd go this far," she said.
The rivalry between Sabalenka and Anisimova, two of the tour's biggest hitters, has been a captivating one. Their fourth meeting this season (Roland Garros, Wimbledon, US Open, Riyadh) was no exception, with Sabalenka's precision and Anisimova's power on full display.
Sabalenka's resilience shone through as she saved all break points and converted two of her own to take the opening set. Anisimova fought back strongly in the second, but Sabalenka's clutch play in the decider, especially in the pivotal seventh game, proved decisive.
With both players unleashing powerful shots, Sabalenka's consistency and composure in the crucial moments gave her the edge, earning her a 5-11 record against Anisimova.
In the earlier semi, Rybakina's powerful serving and strong first-serve performance set her up for a hard-fought victory. The 26-year-old now has a chance to claim her biggest title since Wimbledon 2022, and as a Dubai resident, she becomes the third player from an Asian nation to reach the final, following Zheng Qinwen and Li Na.
