Aryna Sabalenka Triumphs Over Iga Świątek to Secure Cincinnati Open Final Spot Against Jessica Pegula
In an exhilarating match at the Cincinnati Open, Aryna Sabalenka delivered a stunning performance, defeating world No. 1 Iga Świątek with a decisive 6-3, 6-3 victory. This win not only marks Sabalenka’s first straight-set triumph over Świątek but also her first victory against the Polish star this season, following two previous WTA 1000 final losses.
Sabalenka’s strategy was clear and effective. “I wasn’t overrushing things. I was trusting myself a lot, and I wasn’t trying to overhit the ball,” Sabalenka commented, as reported by the WTA. “I was just trying to stay there, put as much pressure as I can on her, and I was really focused on my serve.” Her focus was palpable, especially given her previous head-to-head record against Świątek, which had seen her trailing 8-3. “I gotta get my win, so it’s interesting for people to watch us play,” she added, emphasizing her desire to make the match compelling and secure the win.
Now, Sabalenka advances to her fifth final of the season, aiming to add a second title to her impressive year. After successfully defending her Australian Open crown earlier in January, this will be her debut final appearance in Cincinnati. The victory also propels her up the world rankings to No. 2, reflecting her outstanding form.
On the other side of the draw, American Jessica Pegula is poised to make history. She has the opportunity to become the first woman since Evonne Goolagong Cawley in 1973 to win both the Canadian Open and the Cincinnati Open in the same season. Pegula secured her spot in the final with a hard-fought 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 win over Paula Badosa, despite a rain delay. This victory extends her impressive winning streak to nine matches, following her triumph in Toronto last week.
Having struggled with injuries earlier in the season, Pegula’s resurgence comes at a perfect time as the US Open approaches on August 26. Reflecting on her form, Pegula shared, “I’m feeling pretty good physically after reaching back-to-back finals in the space of a week.” She also noted the importance of rest, saying, “I got some more sleep last night which helps. The body actually feels really good, which is great. I feel like I just need to catch up on some sleep! But after tomorrow’s final, I have a week to catch up on it.”
With both players demonstrating exceptional form and determination, the Cincinnati Open final promises to be a thrilling conclusion to a memorable tournament.
