Sabalenka battles through to first WTA Finals title match in three years

World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka showcased her trademark grit and power to edge past American Amanda Anisimova 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 and secure her place in the WTA Finals title clash on Saturday. The victory marks Sabalenka’s first appearance in the championship match of the season-ending tournament in three years, setting up a blockbuster final against Kazakhstan’s Elena Rybakina.

In a thrilling semifinal that lasted over two hours, Sabalenka was made to work hard against the fourth-seeded Anisimova, who matched her intensity and heavy hitting from the baseline. The opening set, which stretched for nearly an hour, saw Anisimova squander five break-point chances while committing 24 unforced errors, mistakes Sabalenka punished with clinical precision.

The American regrouped in the second set, cutting down on errors and breaking Sabalenka three times to force a decider. But the world No. 1 responded with champion-like composure, breaking for a 4-3 lead before serving out the match.

“Honestly, I wouldn’t care if I’d lost this match because we both played incredible tennis,” Sabalenka said after the win. “It was such a great fight, and I’m super happy to be in the final again.”

Awaiting her is sixth seed Rybakina, who overcame a spirited Jessica Pegula 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 in the other semifinal. The 2022 Wimbledon champion fired 15 aces and sealed victory on her first match point, extending her unbeaten run this week to four matches.

“It wasn’t easy to come back, but I’m glad I managed to find my rhythm in the second set,” Rybakina said. “My serve really helped me at key moments.”

Pegula, last year’s finalist, fell short despite a strong start. Saturday’s final now promises a high-octane clash between two of the game’s most powerful hitters.