Tennis world number one Aryna Sabalenka surprisingly failed in the semifinals of the WTA tournament in Wuhan, China. The four-time Grand Slam winner ultimately lost to Jessica Pegula 6:2, 4:6, 6:7 (2:7).
For the three-time tournament winner Sabalenka, it was the first defeat in her fourth participation in Wuhan. The final of the strong 1000 tournament in the metropolis of eight million between compatriots Gauff and Pegula will take place on Sunday at around 12.30 CEST.
The American Pegula at least partially took revenge for the semi-final defeat in Flushing Meadows at the US Open, at that time the Belarusian had the upper hand and was then crowned tournament winner. After a dominant first set, the 27-year-old lost her line and Buffalo-born Pegula took advantage of the opportunity.
Gauff is waiting for compatriot Pegula in the final
Due to the elimination, Sabalenka missed the chance for a little revenge: In the other semi-final, Coco Gauff defeated the Italian Jasmine Paolini 6:4, 6:4. The American and Sabalenka met in the final of the French Open, at which time Gauff won the game and the title in three sets.