Aryna Sabalenka defeated Jessica Pegula 7-5, 6-2 on Thursday night to advance to the U.S. Open final, where she will chase a historic third consecutive title at Flushing Meadows.
The world No. 1 from Belarus dominated the second set, overwhelming the third-ranked American with aggressive shot-making and precise execution. Sabalenka hit 29 winners to Pegula's 12.
"No complaints," Sabalenka said during her on-court interview. "I'm just super happy that I was able to pull out such tennis."
The first set remained competitive, but Sabalenka seized control at critical moments, breaking Pegula's serve when it mattered most. The momentum she built carried into the second set, where the gap between the two players became unmistakable.
"I was so desperate for the win, I wanted it badly," Sabalenka said.
This marks the third consecutive U.S. Open meeting between Sabalenka and Pegula. Sabalenka also defeated Pegula in the 2024 final and 2025 semifinals.
Sabalenka will face either No. 2 seed Elena Rybakina or No. 4 seed Coco Gauff on Saturday. A victory would make her the first woman since Serena Williams to win three consecutive U.S. Open titles. Williams accomplished the feat from 2012 to 2014.
Sabalenka's winning streak at the U.S. Open extends to 19 consecutive matches dating to her loss to Gauff in the 2023 final. She enters the final as the clear favorite regardless of opponent.
Rybakina is positioned to reclaim the world No. 1 ranking next week. Sabalenka indicated she would accept the ranking change without hesitation, noting her focus was on the championship match ahead.
