World number one Aryna Sabalenka secured a challenging victory against Jessica Pegula, triumphing 6-4, 2-6, 6-3 in their round-robin match at the tournament in Riyadh. Defending champion Coco Gauff also delivered an impressive display, comfortably defeating Jasmine Paolini 6-3, 6-2 and sending the Italian player out of the tournament.
With this win, Sabalenka extended her winning streak to two matches in Group Steffi Graf, bringing her closer to clinching a semi-final spot. Both Gauff and Pegula, having each won one match, remain in contention for the final semi-final berth. After her victory, Sabalenka commended Pegula as a formidable opponent, acknowledging the difficulties she presented during the match. “She always pushed me to the limit… I was thinking, I’m gonna go after my shots,” Sabalenka remarked, highlighting her aggressive approach.
Despite some challenges, such as double faults and Pegula’s early break in the final set, Sabalenka responded strongly, dominating with powerful returns and achieving two critical breaks.
Gauff’s performance against Paolini was a significant departure from her last outing, where she struggled with 17 double faults. In this match, she managed her errors effectively, seizing control early by establishing a 3-0 lead and strategically dismantling Paolini’s game with precise cross-court shots.
Acknowledging the importance of her win, Gauff stated, “I knew today’s win was important to keep myself in the tournament. If I lost, I would have been out.” As the tournament progresses, anticipation builds with top players such as world number two Iga Swiatek set to compete against Amanda Anisimova and Elena Rybakina facing Madison Keys in Group Serena Williams.
With remarkable performances from both Sabalenka and Gauff, fans can expect an array of thrilling matches as these talented athletes vie for a chance to advance to the semifinals. The intense spirit of competition and elevated skill levels in women’s tennis herald a promising and exciting season ahead.