Sabalenka Clinches Semifinal Berth with Straight-Set Victory Over Paolini

Aryna Sabalenka overcame a second-set scare to defeat Jasmine Paolini in straight sets, 6-3, 7-5, at the WTA Finals, securing her spot in the semifinals as the first player to do so in Riyadh.

The Belarusian tennis star, fresh off a win against Zheng Qinwen, started strong against Paolini. She broke twice early, building a 4-0 lead. Despite Paolini managing a break back in the fifth game, Sabalenka’s composure helped her hold onto the set without facing further break points.

A Test of Resilience in the Second Set

Sabalenka found herself in trouble early in the second set, trailing 0-2 after missing a game point. However, the three-time Grand Slam champion quickly rebounded, winning four consecutive games to lead 4-2.

While Sabalenka appeared poised to finish the match routinely, Paolini fought back, taking three consecutive games to lead 5-4. With two set points in the 10th game, Paolini threatened to extend the match, but Sabalenka saved them and broke in the following game, ultimately serving out for victory in the 12th game.

Next Challenge: Sabalenka vs. Rybakina for Year-End No. 1

Looking ahead, Sabalenka will face Elena Rybakina, who currently has a 0-2 record in the group after her loss to Zheng Qinwen. If Sabalenka wins, she will finish her group stage with a 3-0 record, cementing her position as the Year-End No. 1 and entering 2025 as the world’s top-ranked player ahead of Iga Swiatek.

Sabalenka on Her Goals:
“I mean, yeah, that’s definitely one of the goals. I’ve always said it’s about finishing the year as world No. 1. That’s definitely one of my goals. I’ll do everything I can to achieve it,” Sabalenka noted in her pre-tournament press conference.