Sabalenka Holds Off Pegula 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 to Reach US Open Final
Who: Aryna Sabalenka vs. Jessica Pegula. When: Thursday night (US Open quarterfinal). Where: Arthur Ashe Stadium, New York (roof closed for rain). What: Sabalenka recovered from a set down to beat Pegula 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 and advance to the US Open final. Result: Sabalenka will play Amanda Anisimova in Saturday’s final, putting her one win away from defending the title.
Key Takeaways
- Sabalenka overturned an opening-set loss to win 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 and reach her seventh Grand Slam final.
- This is her fourth major final in the last five Slams and third consecutive US Open final in New York.
- Sabalenka finished with 43 winners and eight aces; Pegula recorded 21 winners.
- Pegula limited unforced errors in set one (three) but made nine in the second, shifting momentum.
- Pegula had four break-point opportunities in the deciding set but failed to convert.
- The match played under closed roof conditions after rain arrived at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
- Sabalenka’s improved serve — after a 2022 motion overhaul — was the defining weapon in the win.
Verified Facts
Sabalenka lost the opening set 4-6 as Pegula opened with precise, low-error tennis and aggressive returns that kept rallies on Pegula’s terms. The roof was closed as the weather turned, producing still conditions that accentuated serving and power.
Sabalenka raised her level in the second set while Pegula’s error count increased; Pegula committed nine unforced errors in set two. Across the match Sabalenka produced 43 winners to Pegula’s 21 and hit eight aces, numbers that underlined the match’s turning points.
In the final set Pegula created four break points but was unable to convert any. Sabalenka held serve under pressure and closed out the match 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 to book a spot in the final against Amanda Anisimova on Saturday.
| Stat | Sabalenka | Pegula |
|---|---|---|
| Match score | 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 | 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 |
| Winners | 43 | 21 |
| Aces | 8 | — |
| Key break points in final set | 0 (faced) | 4 (not converted) |
Context & Impact
Sabalenka’s win continues a dominant stretch: it is her seventh Grand Slam final and represents sustained deep runs—four finals in five majors. A victory on Saturday would allow her to defend the US Open crown she won last year.
The result also affects immediate tournament narratives. Anisimova, who will be the finalist Sabalenka faces, now prepares for the biggest match of the tournament with a clear tactical challenge: disrupting Sabalenka’s serving rhythm and power.
At a broader level, Sabalenka’s serving improvements since she adjusted her technique in 2022 have reshaped her game into one that can dominate on fast, still conditions like those under the closed roof. Opponents now must contend with both baseline power and a more reliable first delivery.
Official Statements
Sabalenka described her approach as incremental: she said she took the match ‘one step at a time’ and was glad to have another final opportunity.
Aryna Sabalenka
Pegula praised the level of play on both sides and said she was surprised not to convert chances late in the match, noting she had played Pegula strategically better than in prior meetings.
Jessica Pegula
Unconfirmed
- The long-term ranking impact from this single match is not determined; points will depend on the final outcome and other players’ results.
- Any claim that the serve changes alone made this win possible simplifies a multifaceted performance that also included improved shot selection and mental composure.
Bottom Line
Aryna Sabalenka’s comeback win over Jessica Pegula showcased her serving strength and aggressive ball striking, sending her to a third straight final at Flushing Meadows. Facing Amanda Anisimova on Saturday, Sabalenka stands one victory from successfully defending her US Open title.