Sabalenka was a breath away from last year’s WTA Finals title but was edged out by France’s Caroline Garcia
In the sun-drenched city of Cancun, Mexico, Aryna Sabalenka, the reigning queen of the WTA rankings, emerged victorious over Elena Rybakina, punching her ticket to the semi-finals of the prestigious year-end WTA Finals.
The match, which initially saw Sabalenka with a commanding lead of 6-2 3-5, came to an abrupt halt at 23:40 local time on Thursday, as tempestuous weather rolled in, pausing the proceedings.
Upon resumption, Rybakina wasted no time leveling the match within the opening moments, yet it was Sabalenka who ultimately reigned supreme with a score of 6-2 3-6 6-3.
Discussing her mindset with Tennis Channel, Sabalenka exuded a relaxed attitude. “Honestly, I didn’t overthink this one,” she stated. “My approach was pretty much—let’s hit the court, give it all I’ve got, and see where the chips fall. If it’s a win, fantastic. If not, hello vacation! My focus was simply on playing my best tennis.”
WTA Acknowledges Tough Conditions at Cancun Venue
Sabalenka, who is on the verge of cementing her spot at the pinnacle of the world rankings should she advance to the final, is joined by the American powerhouse and group stage victor Jessica Pegula in the semi-finals.
Elena Rybakina and Greece’s Maria Sakkari, ranked eighth, are bidding farewell to the tournament post the group rounds.
The chase for the semi-finals is heating up in the other bracket, with all contenders still vying for advancement.
Coco Gauff, the US Open champion, is slated to confront Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova. Meanwhile, world number two and this year’s French Open victor, Iga Swiatek, is set for a face-off with Ons Jabeur later in the day on Friday.
Stay tuned for live updates, results, and the schedule of play, and don’t forget to set your alerts for the latest tennis news on your phone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Sabalenka WTA Finals
Who won the match between Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina at the WTA Finals?
Aryna Sabalenka defeated Elena Rybakina to secure her spot in the semi-finals of the WTA Finals in Cancun.
Was the match between Sabalenka and Rybakina affected by the weather?
Yes, the match was suspended due to stormy weather at 23:40 local time on Thursday but resumed later, resulting in Sabalenka’s victory.
Who has Aryna Sabalenka joined in the WTA Finals semi-finals?
Aryna Sabalenka has joined American player Jessica Pegula in the semi-finals.
What does Aryna Sabalenka need to do to retain her world number one ranking?
Aryna Sabalenka needs to reach the final of the WTA Finals to retain her world number one ranking.
Are there any players eliminated from the WTA Finals group stage?
Yes, Elena Rybakina and the eighth-seeded Greek Maria Sakkari have been eliminated from the group stage.
Which players are still in contention for the WTA Finals semi-finals from the other group?
All four players, including US Open champion Coco Gauff, Wimbledon winner Marketa Vondrousova, world number two Iga Swiatek, and Ons Jabeur, are still in contention for the semi-finals from the other group.
More about Sabalenka WTA Finals
- Sabalenka Triumphs at WTA Finals
- Cancun Weather Affects Tennis Play
- Pegula Advances to Semi-finals
- WTA Rankings and Sabalenka
- Rybakina and Sakkari Exit WTA Finals
- Gauff, Swiatek in Contention for Semis
5 comments
oh the weather at cancun is just as unpredictable as the matches huh, suspended play? thats gotta be frustrating for the players…
wow Sabalenka’s really crushing it this year isnt she? Totally saw that coming with the way shes been playing
Jessica Pegula is the dark horse this tournament, watch her go all the way. American tennis is back baby!
i’m still rooting for Swiatek she’s got this! Swiatek all the way to the finals, you’ll see guys
did anyone catch the match times for tomorrow? missed it and i gotta set my alarm, these time zones are a killer…