Aryna Sabalenka wins a tough match to advance to the final against Iga Swaitek at the 2025 US Open. She defeated Jessica Pegula in an exciting three-set contest, coming out on top 4-6, 6-3, 6-4. In this semi-final showdown, two top players in women’s tennis made their passionate rivalry crystal clear. Both athletes played incredible tennis, and their focus and fight through every moment were inspiring.
The match started off with Pegula winning the first set decisively 6-4 and breaking her compatriot early on. She took advantage when the opportunities presented themselves with dictative and efficient play, particularly on serve. Sabalenka came out gunning in the second set, raising her game to take it in a 6-3 rout. This triumph led to a scintillating, winner-filled decisive third set.
During the course of the match, Sabalenka’s big serve was her great weapon. Most notably, she served seven aces to Pegula’s three. Sabalenka ran riot to book her place, blasting 40 winners on her way to a dominant victory. She failed to find her rhythm with 26 unforced errors to Pegula’s 14.
In the decider, Sabalenka raced to 5-3, having all the momentum, and served for the match. A powerful second chance moment underscored her victory. She hit a laser-guided backhand winner, turning the tide after a few tough rallies to start the match. Pegula, clearly undeterred, battled back to no avail and displayed her own array of shots to push Sabalenka into tough spots. She received a break of the day from the net cord. That lucky bounce proved instrumental in her christening her first score of the tournament in one of her matches.
Both competitors were up against challenges, with the two contributing a total of eight double faults. Sabalenka’s serve at love when she needed it most put the pressure back on Pegula just like that and proved to be the difference. Flexing her mental toughness and big-match pedigree as the reigning champion, Sabalenka showed she has plenty of resolve in high-pressure moments.
The mood in Arthur Ashe Stadium had a different tone — one of cautious optimism. Fans went wild for both players as each battled tooth and nail to reach the final. Following her match, Pegula took time to thank the crowd for their encouragement during her match.
“Not many other places I’d rather be tonight.” – Jessica Pegula
Sabalenka spoke of this match being the most intense she has ever played, and how she appreciates such an opponent who brings out the fire in her.
“It was a really tough match. I had to work hard to get this win. She’s such a great player, such a great fighter. Hopefully I can go all the way again. And thank you guys for bringing the best atmosphere.” – Aryna Sabalenka
The hard-earned victory propels Sabalenka into the final where she will defend her title against an as-yet-unknown opponent. Both athletes have squared off against each other on every grand stage in professional tennis. Their meetings are must-see televised spectacles that have redefined the business!
As fans look forward to the final match, Sabalenka’s performance serves as a reminder of her status as one of the elite athletes on the tour. And she’s on her way to doing so much more. Her next objective, of course, will be to add a fifth Grand Slam title to her remarkable list of competition.