Sabalenka pushes past Pegula into U.S. Open final
Aryna Sabalenka advanced to the U.S. Open final after a straight-sets victory over Jessica Pegula. The defending champion will face either Coco Gauff or Elena Rybakina for the title.
Why it matters
This match highlights the high level of competition in women's tennis and the dominance of the top-seeded players at this year's major.
Aryna Sabalenka eliminated top American Jessica Pegula 7-5 6-2 to reach the U.S. Open final on Thursday (September 10, 2026), moving one win away from a rare third consecutive title at the hardcourt major with a comprehensive performance.
The top seed simmered with frustration early in the match before finding her best level, sending over 29 winners and seven aces before closing it out with an unreturnable shot deep in the American's territory.
The third seed Pegula, runner-up in 2024, started the match with a poised performance but eventually succumbed to the Belarusian's power, as costly mistakes in the second set undermined her best efforts.
"I was so desperate for the win, I wanted it badly," said Sabalenka, who will feature in the title match for a fourth straight year, playing either 2023 champion Coco Gauff or the second seed Elena Rybakina
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