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Aryna Sabalenka cruises past Jessica Pegula and into the U.S. Open final
The New York Times • • general
Key Points:
- Aryna Sabalenka defeated Jessica Pegula 7-5, 6-2 to reach the 2026 U.S. Open women's final, aiming for her third consecutive title at this Grand Slam.
- Sabalenka, who has struggled in recent months, has regained confidence and form in New York, where she feels inspired by the city's energy and her favorite stadium.
- Pegula struggled to break Sabalenka's serve and was unable to counter Sabalenka's powerful and strategic play on the hard court surface.
- Sabalenka will face Elena Rybakina in the final, with Rybakina set to become the new world No. 1 next week regardless of the final's outcome.
- Sabalenka has a strong record on hard courts and has reached four consecutive U.S. Open finals, winning two, and is determined to secure her third title in New York.
