In a thrilling US Open women’s singles semifinal clash on Thursday, Aryna Sabalenka staged a spectacular comeback to defeat Jessica Pegula with a score of 4-6, 6-3, 6-4. The match, a nail-biting rematch of last year’s final, lasted 2 hours and 24 minutes, showcasing why these two athletes are consistently among the world’s best 🎾.

who won the pegula match today

🔥 A Rollercoaster Match of Twists and Turns

The match began with Sabalenka seizing an early break to lead 4-2 in the first set. However, Pegula, feeding off the energy of the home crowd, mounted a brilliant counter-attack. She won four consecutive games with impeccable precision to snatch the first set 6-4, committing a mere three unforced errors in the process.

Undeterred by losing the opening set, the world number one regrouped. She emerged for the second set with renewed intensity, grabbing an early break with a fierce forehand and maintaining her lead to take the set 6-3, forcing a decisive third set.

The final set was a masterclass in nerve. Sabalenka broke Pegula’s serve in the very first game, securing a crucial early advantage. The defining moment came in a marathon sixth game where Pegula created four break opportunities. Sabalenka’s mental fortitude shone through as she saved every one, a testament to her champion’s mindset, ultimately holding her nerve to close out the match 6-4.

📊 By the Numbers: What Truly Won the Match?

The statistics reveal the stark contrast in power that decided this epic encounter:

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A stunning 43 winners unleashed by Sabalenka’s racket.
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8 aces fired past Pegula.
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A formidable display of clutch play, saving multiple break points in the tense final set.

While Pegula’s consistency and tactical play pushed Sabalenka to the limit, the Belarusian’s ability to deliver powerful serves and aggressive groundstrokes at the most critical moments made the ultimate difference.

🤔 A Growing Rivalry with a Clear Pattern

This semifinal was the latest chapter in an intriguing rivalry. Sabalenka now holds a commanding 8-2 head-to-head advantage over Pegula. Their matches are often fiercely competitive, but Sabalenka has now won their last four encounters, including the previous US Open final and the 2025 Miami Open final.

💪 Beyond the Score: The Bigger Picture

For Jessica Pegula, this loss is undoubtedly a tough pill to swallow, especially on home soil. Despite the defeat, her performance throughout the tournament, including this match, reaffirms her status as a top-4 player capable of challenging the very best.

For Aryna Sabalenka, this victory is a powerful statement. Her resilience and ability to win under immense pressure are the hallmarks of a true number one. This win marks her third consecutive US Open final appearance, placing her on the cusp of becoming the first woman since Serena Williams (2013-14) to successfully defend her title in New York.

who won the pegula match today

🏆 The Final Frontier: Awaiting a Worthy Opponent

Sabalenka’s hard-fought victory sets up a final against the winner between Naomi Osaka and Amanda Anisimova. A final against Anisimova would be particularly fascinating, as she leads their head-to-head record and has proven to be a tricky opponent in the past. Regardless of the opponent, the final promises to be a spectacular conclusion to the tournament.

From a personal viewpoint, this match highlighted the fine margins at the pinnacle of tennis. Pegula’s game was nearly flawless for a set, but Sabalenka’s raw power and improved mental toughness allow her to create opportunities where few others can. It’s this ability to manufacture winners under pressure that continues to separate her from the pack.