Jessica Pegula will compete against Aryna Sabalenka in the Cincinnati Open final after overcoming Paula Badosa. World number six Pegula secured her spot with a 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 victory on Sunday, despite a lengthy rain delay. Sabalenka, ranked third globally, reached the final by defeating Iga Swiatek in straight sets.
The 30-year-old Pegula began the match strongly, breaking Badosa twice to take a 4-0 lead. She needed three break points to secure the second break but maintained her momentum to win the first set in 38 minutes. The match was then paused due to rain with the score tied midway through the second set.
Badosa used the extended break to her advantage, capitalising on both break opportunities to push the semi-final into a deciding set. However, Pegula remained composed, saving four break points to take a 2-1 lead in the third set before Badosa’s serve faltered, leading to Pegula’s victory in just under two hours.
Sabalenka awaits Pegula in the final after securing a straight-sets win over Iga Swiatek. This sets up an exciting showdown between two of the top players on the WTA Tour. Pegula is aiming for consecutive WTA 1000 event victories following her recent Canadian Open triumph.
Pegula’s Impressive Form
Pegula is currently in excellent form, having won her last nine matches across WTA Tour events. This streak matches her previous career-best run. She is now one of only six players in the Open Era to reach both the Canadian and Cincinnati Open finals in a single calendar year, joining Rosie Casals, Evonne Goolagong, Na Li, Serena Williams, and Simona Halep.
Badosa continues to seek her first victory over Pegula and remains without a top-10 win on hard courts since defeating Barbora Krejcikova two years ago in Sydney. Despite this setback, Badosa showed resilience and determination throughout the match.
As Pegula prepares for her final against Sabalenka, she aims to continue her impressive form and secure another significant title on the WTA Tour.
