Jessica Pegula and Aryna Sabalenka advanced to the US Open semi-finals on Tuesday, setting up a rematch of the 2024 final after hard-fought victories against Emma Navarro and Linda Noskova, respectively. Both players faced physical challenges and key turning points in their matches, with Sabalenka’s win over Noskova marked by a tense third-set tiebreak.
Pegula’s Grind Against Navarro
Jessica Pegula secured her third straight US Open semi-final berth with a 3-6, 6-4, 6-3 victory over Emma Navarro, a former world number eight who has returned to form after an extended break to focus on health issues. The match, which lasted two hours and 20 minutes, featured nine breaks of serve and saw Pegula overcome a humid, physically demanding encounter. Pegula said it was really tough, acknowledging her struggles with serving and mental resilience. Pegula said it was physical, humid. She wasn’t exactly serving her best and she was fighting a lot of demons out there that day.
Pegula improved to 5-0 against Navarro, capitalizing on her opponent’s extended absence from the tour. The clash, dubbed the Battle of the Billionaires
by American media, will take place on Thursday after a delayed start due to Frances Tiafoe’s marathon match against Alex Michelsen.
Sabalenka’s Narrow Escape Against Noskova
Aryna Sabalenka survived her toughest test of the tournament, defeating Wimbledon champion Linda Noskova 7-6 (7-1), 3-6, 7-6 (10-7) to reach her sixth consecutive US Open semi-final. The Belarusian, aiming to become the third woman in the Open Era to win three straight US Open singles titles, faced a determined Noskova, who fired 18 aces and saved seven of nine break points. However, Sabalenka’s resilience shone through in the final set, where she clawed back from a 4-2 deficit to clinch the tiebreak with a second-serve ace.
Sabalenka said it was a battle and that she is an incredible player. Sabalenka said she honestly thought the match was over and that it helped her to feel loose and just go after her shots. The win keeps Sabalenka’s No. 1 ranking intact, though she could lose it if No. 2 Elena Rybakina defeats Zheng Qinwen on Wednesday.
Rankings Implications and Rivalry Context
The semi-final between Pegula and Sabalenka carries significant implications for the WTA rankings. Pegula would have to go all the way to a first major title to have a shot at claiming the top spot, but the Belarusian’s position is precarious. A Rybakina victory over Zheng Qinwen would grant the second-ranked player the top spot regardless of Sabalenka’s outcome. This dynamic adds urgency to the showdown.
The rivalry, fueled by their contrasting styles and backgrounds, has drawn attention from American media. Pegula has secured her fifth straight win over her compatriot, including a victory at last month’s Cincinnati Open. Their 2024 final encounter saw Sabalenka triumph, but Pegula’s recent form suggests a competitive rematch.
What Comes Next: The Semi-Final and Beyond
The semi-final between Pegula and Sabalenka is set for Thursday, with the winner facing either Rybakina or Zheng Qinwen. For Sabalenka, a victory would bring her closer to matching Chris Evert and Serena Williams in winning a third successive US title. For Pegula, it represents a chance to challenge the rankings hierarchy.
Both players emphasized the physical and mental demands of the tournament. Pegula noted her ability to tell the negative voice to shut up and just play tennis and compete, while Sabalenka highlighted the importance of adapting to high-pressure moments. As the tennis world turns its attention to the semi-finals, the focus remains on who can capitalize on the final stretch of the US Open.
