Sabalenka survives Pegula storm to win U.S. Open women’s title
REUTERS – Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka hoisted the trophy in New York at last after years of close calls, as she outplayed American sixth seed Jessica Pegula 7-5 7-5 in the U.S. Open women’s final on Saturday.
Sabalenka won her first title at Flushing Meadows a year after coming up short in the final. Twice before, she reached the semi-finals. On Saturday, she blocked out the wild cheers for the hometown favorite at Arthur Ashe Stadium to break Pegula in the final game.
“So many times I thought I was so close to get U.S. Open title. Finally, I get this beautiful trophy,” said the second seed, who fought back from a breakdown in both sets to claim victory and fell to the court in her moment of triumph.
“I remember all those tough loses in the past here and you know, it’s going to sound cheesy but never give up on your dream and just keep trying,” Sabalenka said.
The Belarusian dropped only one set in New York on her way to the final as key contenders including defending champion Coco Gauff and top seed Iga Swiatek crashed out.
Pegula, 30, had waited a long time to reach her first major final and came to New York in fine form after winning in Toronto. But she could not match her opponent’s raw power despite the noisy backing of the New York crowd.