Amanda Anisimova conceded only three games as she defeated defending champion Coco Gauff to advance to the China Open title match.
Anisimova, a finalist at both Wimbledon and the US Open, needed just under an hour to dispatch her fellow American with a score of 6-1, 6-2.
Anisimova, having ascended to the world’s fourth-ranked player during a remarkable season, showcased her talent in overpowering the French Open champion, Gauff.
In Beijing, she surrendered a mere five points on her initial serve and secured the first five games of the contest in an impressive showing.
“I managed to deliver a truly strong performance,” Anisimova commented.
“I understood that I would need to perform at my absolute best against Coco if I hoped to secure the victory, and I am extremely thrilled to be heading to the final.”
Gauff’s sole previous defeat on Beijing’s primary court occurred against Iga Swiatek in 2023, also during the semi-final round.
She appeared out of rhythm throughout the match, committing five double faults and sending a series of shots either too long or into the net.
Anisimova is set to face Linda Noskova in Sunday’s championship match after the Czech competitor survived three match points to overcome Jessica Pegula with a score of 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 (8-6).
Pegula, representing America, served for the match at 6-5 in the third set and possessed three match points on her serve before Noskova responded.
Noskova compelled a decisive tie-break and squandered two match points of her own before capitalizing on an error from Pegula.
