Epic Showdown, Heartbreak for Pegula: Sabalenka Prevails in US Open Semifinal
In a thrilling US Open women\'s semifinal last night, Aryna Sabalenka emerged victorious, defeating Jessica Pegula...
In a thrilling US Open women’s semifinal last night, Aryna Sabalenka emerged victorious, defeating Jessica Pegula in a three-set battle that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The final score was 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 in favor of the world No. 1.

This match was a nail-biter! 😲 Pegula started strong, taking the first set, but Sabalenka’s powerful comeback secured her spot in the final.
*
🎾 Match Breakdown: A Rollercoaster of Emotions
The highly anticipated match between world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka and No. 4 Jessica Pegula delivered intense drama. Pegula started strong, capitalizing on Sabalenka’s early double faults to break back and claim the first set 6-4. However, Sabalenka showcased her champion’s mentality, roaring back in the second set with aggressive baseline hitting and a crucial break to take it 6-3. The final set was a tense affair. Sabalenka secured an early break, and despite Pegula fighting desperately and creating four break points in the sixth game, Sabalenka’s formidable serve and mental toughness saw her save them all, eventually closing out the match 6-4. The battle lasted 2 hours and 18 minutes.
*

⚡️ Key Turning Point
The pivotal moment came in the sixth game of the decisive third set. With Sabalenka holding a 4-1 lead, Pegula mounted a fierce challenge, earning four break points that could have shifted the momentum entirely. However, Sabalenka demonstrated why she’s the top player, unleashing powerful serves and groundstrokes to save every one, ultimately holding her serve and extinguishing Pegula’s best chance at a comeback.
*
📊 By the Numbers: What Won the Match
The stats reveal the story of Sabalenka’s win:
- •
38 winners peppered the court by Sabalenka.
- •
A dominant 76% first-serve win percentage for the Belarusian.
- •
This victory marks Sabalenka’s 8th win in their 10 career meetings.
.jpg)
- •
She has now beaten Pegula four consecutive times at the US Open, without dropping a set in their previous three meetings here.
*
👀 A Rivalry Renewed
This match was the latest chapter in an ongoing rivalry. While Sabalenka now leads their head-to-head 8-2, their matches are often tightly contested. Their most recent finals clash was in Miami earlier this year, which Sabalenka also won in straight sets. Interestingly, both of Pegula’s career major final appearances have ended in defeat to Sabalenka.
.jpg)
*
🏆 What’s Next for Sabalenka?
With this victory, Aryna Sabalenka advances to her third consecutive US Open final. She will face Amanda Anisimova for the championship. Sabalenka is seeking to become the first woman since Serena Williams (2012-2014) to successfully defend her US Open title. This final is a chance for redemption after finishing as runner-up at the first two majors of the year.

*
💪 Pegula’s Strong Season Despite the Loss
While the semifinal loss is undoubtedly disappointing for Jessica Pegula, her 2025 season has been remarkably consistent. She has proven herself on all surfaces, winning titles on:
- •
Hard courts (WTA250 Austin).
- •
Green clay (WTA500 Charleston).
- •
Grass (WTA500 Bad Homburg).
This versatility makes her one of the most complete players on tour.
Despite the tough loss, Pegula’s game is clearly in a great place. Her ability to win on all surfaces and challenge the very best proves she remains a top threat heading into the rest of the season. 🎾
