Sabalenka advances to second consecutive US Open final after defeating Navarro
Xtra Time Web Desk: World number two Aryna Sabalenka secured her place in the US Open final for the second consecutive year by overcoming a determined Emma Navarro and a vocal crowd. Sabalenka triumphed with scores of 6-3, 7-6 (7/2), moving one win away from claiming her third Grand Slam title. She will face either Jessica Pegula or Karolina Muchova in the final.
Navarro, competing in her first Grand Slam semi-final, fought hard, coming back from a 3-5 deficit in the second set to force a tiebreak. Despite her valiant effort, Navarro was unable to withstand Sabalenka's power and precision. The Belarusian hit 34 winners compared to Navarro's 13.
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How Aryna Sabalenka and Jessica Pegula reached the US Open final ???? pic.twitter.com/kE6RaV1y7q
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 6, 2024
In the post-match interview, Sabalenka acknowledged the crowd's support, saying, "Guys, now you're cheering for me. Wow. It's a bit too late. It really means a lot and even though you guys were supporting her still I had the goose bumps for you cheering. It was an incredible atmosphere." She also expressed readiness to face whoever makes it to the final, whether it be Pegula or Muchova.
Sabalenka, who was the runner-up to Coco Gauff last year, used her raw power to dominate the match, securing the first set with 16 winners. Although Navarro briefly rallied, Sabalenka sealed the victory in the tiebreak.
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“Well guys, now you’re cheering for me, it’s a bit too late!”
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 6, 2024
Never change, @SabalenkaA ???? pic.twitter.com/4z0iWl0wR1
In other semi-final news, Jessica Pegula has reached her first Grand Slam semi-final, having defeated top seed Iga Swiatek with a commanding performance. Pegula, who has been impressive on hard courts this season, expressed her excitement, saying, "Finally, finally, I can say I'm a semi-finalist."
Karolina Muchova, who is also in the semi-finals for the second year running, has not dropped a set throughout the tournament. After a serious wrist injury and surgery, Muchova has made a strong comeback this season.
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