MATCH REPORT | 2024 US Open: Aryna Sabalenka makes it back-to-back finals after strong performance against Navarro
WTA
Aryna
Sabalenka returns to the US Open final after defeating Emma Navarro 6-3, 7-6(2).
The world No. 2 reaches the final in Flushing Meadows for the second
consecutive year and will seek her third Grand Slam title on Saturday when she
faces the winner between Jessica Pegula and Karolina Muchova.
The
Belarusian claimed her 45th win of the season and looked dominant against a
resilient Navarro. The American stood her ground for much of the match, but gave up on key points. Although she had chances for a comeback at the end of the second set, Sabalenka finally pulled out her hierarchy for another straight-sets win.
Sabalenka's stellar win over Navarro
The 2-time Grand Slam champion started strong with her serve and capitalized on her opponent's early nerves,
securing a break to go up 2-0. The crowd started getting involved once Navarro
looked more comfortable on the court, gaining confidence to be competitive.
In the
third game, Sabalenka faced a break point for the first time in her last three
matches, after easily advancing past Elise Mertens and Zheng Qinwen. A couple
of errors cost her the break, and Navarro came alive to level the match at 2-2.
Navarro had
solid service games when she landed her first serve, winning 67% of those
points, but only 14% on her second serve. Sabalenka, as usual, tried to close
out points quickly when attacking her opponent's serve, breaking again in the
6th game. Despite Navarro creating a chance to break back, Sabalenka took the
set 6-3 after hitting 16 winners and committing 11 unforced errors.
Aryna Sabalenka at 2024 US Open.
Navarro
didn’t seem to falter at the start of the second set. She held serve to love
and led 2-1. The world No. 12 found success with her slice shots, troubling
Sabalenka’s forehand. However, a string of errors followed, and Sabalenka
seized the opportunity, winning 14 of the next 17 points, as the American edged
closer to defeat.
Navarro had
improved with her first serve, winning over 70% of those points, but only a
minimal percentage with her second serve. Sabalenka became even more
aggressive, leading to some unforced errors, but she remained firmly in control
of the match.
Sabalenka got a break that took her ahead until 5-3 and had the chance to play on her serve to close the set. However, Navarro didn't give up so quickly, broke back and won the next three games in a row, forcing to define everything in a tie-break. In the end, the world No. 2 clinched the victory by 6-3, 7-6(2) and reaches her fourth Grand Slam final. She awaits the winner between Jessica Pegula and Karolina Muchova.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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