Fri Nov 07 17:50:00 UTC 2025: Sabalenka Secures Year-End No. 1 Ranking, Reaches WTA Finals Semis

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Aryna Sabalenka has solidified her position as the year-end world number one after defeating Coco Gauff at the WTA Finals in Riyadh. The victory also secured Sabalenka’s place in the semi-finals alongside Jessica Pegula.

Sabalenka avenged her French Open final loss to Gauff with a hard-fought 7-6 (7-5), 6-2 win. Despite a shaky start, Sabalenka showcased her resilience, battling back from multiple breaks to dominate the match. Her tie-break prowess, evidenced by winning 22 of 24 tie-breaks this year, proved crucial in the first set.

“We always have great battles,” Sabalenka said after the match. “It’s enjoyable playing against her because I know it’s going to be a great fight. Whenever I focus on myself and what I have to do, without getting over-emotional and just staying in the zone – that’s the key for me.”

Meanwhile, Jessica Pegula secured her semi-final spot with a dominant 6-2, 6-3 victory over Jasmine Paolini, who struggled with fatigue. Pegula’s strong serve and aggressive play proved too much for Paolini to handle.

Gauff’s exit guarantees a first-time WTA Finals champion this year. Sabalenka will face Amanda Anisimova in a rematch of their US Open final, while Pegula will take on Elena Rybakina in the other semi-final.

In doubles action, Timea Babos and Luisa Stefani advanced to the semi-finals, while Katerina Siniakova and Taylor Townsend continued their winning streak.

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