Aryna Sabalenka has once again emerged as the final woman standing at Flushing Meadows. The defending champion defeated Jessica Pegula 7-5, 6-2 in the 2026 US Open semi-final to reach her fourth consecutive final, putting her among the select group of players who have enjoyed sustained dominance in New York.
Sabalenka’s latest achievement brings back memories of Serena Williams’ impressive US Open run. Serena made four straight finals between 2011 and 2014, winning three of them, and Sabalenka now has the opportunity to match another part of that legacy by securing her third consecutive title in New York.
The Belarusian initially faced resistance from Pegula but soon took control of the contest, producing seven aces and 29 winners during an 80-minute display. More significantly, she once again handled the pressure that comes with entering a Grand Slam as the player everyone wants to beat.
With just one more win needed, Sabalenka is now within touching distance of adding another chapter to US Open history. She will face the winner of the other semi-final between newly crowned world No. 1 Elena Rybakina and fourth seed Coco Gauff.
A FINAL AFTER DIP IN FORM
Sabalenka acknowledged that she was extremely eager to reach the final of the year’s last Grand Slam following a challenging period during the clay and grass seasons. The world No. 1, who was beaten in the Australian Open final earlier this year, suffered a semi-final defeat at the French Open before exiting Wimbledon in the fourth round. She also lost her grip on the top ranking earlier this week, giving her another reason to arrive at Flushing Meadows determined to prove herself. Against Pegula on Thursday, she did exactly that.
“I was so desperate for the win, I wanted it badly,” she said candidly.
Her frustration was visible during the match. After failing to convert an early break-point chance, Sabalenka’s anger boiled over when she committed a double fault and smashed her racquet against the court. However, she quickly regained her focus, earned the crucial break and secured the first set without allowing the contest to reach a tie-break.
The intensity continued into the second set against home favourite Pegula, but Sabalenka quickly established a 3-0 advantage. From there, she remained firmly in control and completed the victory in only 80 minutes.
After the match, Sabalenka made it clear how much the win meant to her, while also thanking the New York crowd for its support and respect.
“No complaints. I’m super happy I was able to pull out such tennis. The last match I played against Jessica it was almost impossible for me to get the win. I’m super happy I was able to play such tennis in front of you all. Thank you for the atmosphere. You guys are the best. Your respect to me is priceless. I know you wanted her to win, it’s obvious. But thank you for being so respectful to me. Love you guys,” she said.
The last few months have not matched the high standards Sabalenka has established for herself. However, reaching a fourth straight US Open final has once again restored her confidence.
Since claiming her maiden Grand Slam title at the 2023 Australian Open, Sabalenka has ended every season with at least one major trophy. She now has one final match standing between her and extending that remarkable streak, while another victory would further underline her status as the dominant force in New York.
