Sabalenka overcomes Pegula, moves closer to US Open hat-trick

NEW YORK: Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka defeated American third seed Jessica Pegula 7-5, 6-2 on Thursday to reach the US Open final and move within one victory of securing a historic third consecutive title here at Flushing Meadows. The top seed overcame an error-filled and frustrating start before finding her rhythm and taking control of the semi-final. Sabalenka struck 29 winners and seven aces, sealing victory with an unreturnable shot deep into Pegula’s court. Pegula, who reached the final last year, struggled to cope with Sabalenka’s power and saw her unforced errors increase as the match progressed. Pegula saved an early break point with a strong forehand winner, while Sabalenka showed her frustration by smashing her racket after a double fault in the ninth game. However, the Belarusian recovered quickly, breaking Pegula from the baseline on set point to take the opening set. Sabalenka continued to dominate in the second, breaking for a 3-1 lead with another powerful forehand winner before securing another break to close out the match. Pegula admitted she had few answers against an inspired opponent. "She played insane. She played a super-high level," said Pegula. "Honestly, I don't really know if there was much I could do today." Victory on Saturday would make Sabalenka the first woman since Serena Williams to win three successive US Open titles in the Open Era. Reflecting, Sabalenka said: "I was so desperate for the win. You guys are the best and your respect for me is priceless. I know you wanted her (Pegula) to win but thank you for being so respectful to me." Sabalenka now targets a fifth Grand Slam title, having won US Open 2026-24 and Australian Open 2026-24. Her powerful attacking game, especially serve and forehand, helped her overcome early struggles. Tactical analysis: Pegula started well, exploiting Sabalenka’s early inconsistency. But once Sabalenka regained focus, she completely dominated. Pegula lacked the power to counter deep, forceful shots. Pegula’s key mistake was failing to pressure Sabalenka’s second serve when she was struggling. Instead, she let Sabalenka escape and regain control. Sabalenka will face the winner of the other semi-final between Iga Swiatek (Poland) and Coco Gauff (USA). Regardless of opponent, Sabalenka is favored due to her impressive form at Flushing Meadows. A win would make her the first female player to achieve this in over a decade. Vietnamese tennis fans can watch the final on Saturday on sports channels. Aryna Sabalenka is proving her class as a true champion.