Iga Swiatek, currently ranked third globally, secured a 7-5, 6-3 victory against Elena Rybakina, advancing to her inaugural Cincinnati Open final.
Rybakina, the 2022 Wimbledon victor, previously triumphed over Aryna Sabalenka, the world’s top player and defending champion, in the quarter-finals, demonstrating a strong start.
However, Swiatek, the current Wimbledon titleholder, maintained command after successfully recovering from an initial break in the first set.
“That was a challenging contest,” expressed the Polish third seed. “The initial phase was quite chaotic; the pace was so rapid that occasionally we struggled to reach the subsequent ball.
“I aimed to compete with vigor and maintain high quality, and I am exceedingly pleased with my overall performance.
“The final will undoubtedly present a significant challenge. I must strategize meticulously, but my primary focus remains on my own game and continuing the diligent effort I have invested.”
Swiatek, aged 24, is set to compete against either Jasmine Paolini from Italy or Veronika Kudermetova from Russia in the final scheduled for Monday.
