Sabalenka Chases Serena’s Legacy at US Open
Sabalenka defeats Pegula 7-5, 6-2, advancing to US Open final where she'll attempt to become first three-peat champion since Serena Williams.
The update
Aryna Sabalenka defeated Jessica Pegula 7-5, 6-2 on Thursday night to advance to the US Open final, where she’ll seek to become the first player to win three consecutive titles at Flushing Meadows since Serena Williams from 2012-2014. Sabalenka dominated with 29 winners to Pegula’s 12, turning their third straight US Open meeting into a rout after previous matches were tight.
Why it matters
Sabalenka’s victory represents a significant moment in tennis history as she chases a three-peat at the US Open. Despite ceding the world No. 1 ranking to Elena Rybakina, Sabalenka remains focused on cementing her legacy at this tournament. She has won 19 straight matches at the US Open since losing to Coco Gauff in the 2023 final, with Pegula noting Sabalenka’s “insanely high” level of play.
What to watch
Sabalenka will face either Elena Rybakina or Coco Gauff in the final. With the top four seeds reaching the semifinals for the first time since 1975, the final will feature a player with multiple major titles against one still seeking their first. Sabalenka has said she would be fine ceding the No. 1 ranking if she can win another US Open trophy.
Sources
- espn.com — match results and historical context
- NY Daily News — ranking status and player reactions
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