The long-standing undefeated run of Aryna Sabalenka, the top-ranked player worldwide, at the Wuhan Open concluded as Jessica Pegula overcame a 5-2 deficit in the deciding set, securing a win and a spot in the final against Coco Gauff.
Sabalenka had previously emerged victorious in Wuhan during each of the three preceding tournaments and appeared poised to advance to the final once more, having secured two breaks to establish dominance in the third set.
However, Pegula, aged 31, demonstrated resilience by clinching four consecutive games.
Sabalenka managed to fend off two match points, pushing the set into a tie-break, but she ultimately faltered as Pegula, representing the United States, triumphed with a score of 2-6, 6-4, 7-6 (7-2).
Earlier in the competition, Gauff, the reigning champion of the French Open, delivered an uneven performance but nonetheless secured a victory against Jasmine Paolini, thereby earning her place in the final.
The 21-year-old defeated the Italian seventh seed with a score of 6-4, 6-3 in a match characterized by a sequence of 11 consecutive service breaks, marking her first final appearance since her triumph at Roland Garros in June.
Despite Gauff’s victory in straight sets, she encountered difficulties with her serve, experiencing five breaks and committing seven double faults.
“I am genuinely pleased with my performance today. It presented challenges, especially during serving, but I accomplished what was necessary to progress,” Gauff stated.
“Sabalenka and Pegula are exceptional athletes, and I have been defeated by both in the past. Nevertheless, my primary focus will be on my side of the court, striving to manage the elements within my control.”
