Aryna Sabalenka Charges into U.S. Open Final

Second seed Aryna Sabalenka secured her spot in the U.S. Open final by defeating American Emma Navarro 6-3 7-6(2). Sabalenka, who was the runner-up last year, showcased her power with 34 winners. She will face either Jessica Pegula or Karolina Muchova in the championship match.

Second seed Aryna Sabalenka charged into her second straight U.S. Open final on Thursday, overcoming a late-match fightback from American Emma Navarro 6-3 7-6(2) at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

The runner-up last year relied on her superior power to subdue the 13th-seeded Navarro, sending over 34 winners, and she closed it out with a satisfying overhead smash on match point. Navarro took out the defending champion Coco Gauff in the fourth round but appeared outmatched against the major veteran Sabalenka, even with a passionate home crowd urging her on.

Sabalenka will play the winner of a match between Jessica Pegula and Karolina Muchova in the championship match.

(With inputs from agencies.)