In an intense WTA Finals match in Riyadh, Jessica Pegula showcased remarkable resilience against Aryna Sabalenka, saving four set points in the opening set after fighting back from a break down. Yet the World No.1 stayed composed, forcing a forehand error to close the first set 6–4.
Though Pegula surged again to dominate the second set 6–2 and gained an early lead in the decider, Sabalenka’s determination prevailed. She recovered from a break down, broke Pegula twice consecutively, and sealed the final set 6–3, securing her top position in the Stefanie Graf Group.
“Tuesday was no different as Sabalenka weathered the Pegula storm to remain at the top of the standings in the Stefanie Graf Group, 6–4, 2–6, 6–3.”
The result keeps the group wide open. Both Sabalenka, Pegula, and Coco Gauff remain in contention for a semifinal berth. If Gauff defeats Sabalenka and Pegula overcomes Paolini, all three would share a 2–1 record, leaving standings to be decided by sets or games won.
Sabalenka’s grit carried her through a tense three-set battle in Riyadh, keeping WTA Finals semifinal hopes alive for her, Pegula, and Gauff as the group race tightens.