Sabalenka overcomes Pegula to reach US Open final for fourth straight year

Aryna Sabalenka defeated Jessica Pegula 7-5, 6-2 in the US Open semifinals at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The Belarusian advances to her fourth consecutive US Open final, a rare achievement in the WTA era. Sabalenka hit 29 winners and 7 aces, overcoming early tension and a partisan crowd. Pegula started well but faded in the second set, committing costly errors. Sabalenka will face either Coco Gauff or Elena Rybakina in the final, chasing a historic three-peat. Former First Lady Michelle Obama attended the match. Sabalenka admitted feeling "desperation" at times but regained composure. The final is set for Saturday.