Amanda Anisimova of the United States (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)
Sabalenka defeated Pegula 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 in a rematch of last year’s final. She aims to be the first player to successfully defend the title in New York since Serena Williams in 2014. Anisimova broke Osaka’s serve to lead 5-4 but immediately lost her own service game.
“It was a really tough match — she (Pegula) played incredible tennis as always and I had to work really hard to get this win,” said Sabalenka. World number one Aryna Sabalenka will face Amanda Anisimova in the US Open final after defeating their respective opponents in the semifinals. The second set saw four service breaks in the first six games.
The match began with Sabalenka taking a 4-2 lead in the first set after breaking Pegula’s serve. Anisimova, seeded eighth, reached her second consecutive major final by defeating Osaka 6-7 (4/7), 7-6 (7/3), 6-3 in a late-night match.
“It was too good from her today at some points,” said Pegula. In the final set, Sabalenka secured an early break and maintained her advantage. She saved multiple break points throughout the set and sealed victory with a forehand winner on her third match point.