Pegula’s Stunning Comeback Sets Up US Open Final Clash with Sabalenka
American Jessica Pegula has reached her first Grand Slam singles final at the US Open, setting up a highly anticipated showdown against world number two Aryna Sabalenka. Pegula staged a remarkable comeback in her semifinal match against Karolina Muchova, winning 1-6, 6-4, 6-2 after being down a set, a break, and facing a break point in the second set.
In the final, Pegula will face Sabalenka, who secured her spot by defeating fellow American Emma Navarro 6-3, 7-6 (7-2), marking her second consecutive US Open final appearance. Sabalenka’s achievement makes her the first woman since Serena Williams in 2019 to reach back-to-back singles finals at Flushing Meadows.
During her match, Sabalenka playfully addressed the crowd, who had been cheering for Navarro. “Now you’re cheering for me, but it’s a bit too late,” she joked. Previously, Sabalenka had promised to buy drinks for the crowd if they cheered for her, quipping, “Margaritas for everyone!” after her victory.
Sabalenka will face a boisterous crowd supporting New York native Pegula in Saturday’s final, but the Belarusian is no stranger to handling intense atmospheres.