Key Highlights
- Aryna Sabalenka secured her place in the WTA Finals last four after defeating Coco Gauff.
- Jessica Pegula also qualified for the semi-finals, defeating Jasmine Paolini.
- The Stefanie Graf Group concluded with Sabalenka topping the group and Pegula finishing second.
- Aryna Sabalenka will face Amanda Anisimova in the semi-finals on Friday.
WTA Finals 2025: Aryna Sabalenka and Jessica Pegula Secure Semi-Final Spots
In a thrilling match at the WTA Finals in Riyadh, Belarusian tennis star Aryna Sabalenka secured her place in the semi-finals by defeating American Coco Gauff. The victory not only kept Sabalenka on course for a first WTA Finals title but also avenged her defeat at the French Open final earlier this year.
Sabalenka and Pegula entered Thursday’s matches knowing that only two players from the Stefanie Graf Group would progress to the semi-finals. After Pegula comfortably defeated already-eliminated Jasmine Paolini, Sabalenka faced a tough challenge against Gauff, who had previously beaten her at Roland Garros in June.
Sabalenka’s Comeback Victory
The match between Sabalenka and Gauff was not without its twists. Sabalenka started poorly but rallied to secure the victory with a 7-6 (7-5) 6-2 win, cementing her position at the top of the group with a 100% record. She will face Amanda Anisimova in the semi-finals on Friday, repeating their US Open final match earlier this year.
“Whenever I focus on myself and what I have to do, without getting over-emotional and just staying in the zone—that’s the key for me,” Sabalenka told Sky Sports. Her performance showcased her full range of emotions, from frustration after several points lost to celebration as she clinched the match.
Pegula’s Straight-Set Win
Meanwhile, Jessica Pegula defeated Jasmine Paolini 6-2 6-3, ensuring her place in the semi-finals for the fourth consecutive year. The victory solidified Pegula’s spot alongside Sabalenka and highlighted her status as a formidable player on the WTA tour.
Pegula’s performance was marked by her consistent serve, which won 70% of points behind her second serve. Despite Paolini’s valiant effort, Pegula maintained control throughout, breaking twice in both sets to secure victory in just 63 minutes. “I served really well, played solid and was aggressive when I needed to be,” she said.
Implications for the WTA Finals
The elimination of Gauff means there is guaranteed to be a first-time WTA Finals champion on Saturday. Gauff’s exit also leaves Sabalenka as one of the favorites, given her recent form and the respect she commands in the tennis world.
With Sabalenka already securing the year-end world number one ranking, this semi-final represents another milestone in her career. The match against Anisimova will be a crucial test for both players, with the outcome potentially shaping the final standings of the tournament.
The WTA Finals continue to showcase the depth and competitiveness of women’s tennis, with top-tier talent battling it out for supremacy on the global stage. As the semi-finals approach, fans are set for more exciting matches and potential upsets in this prestigious event.
