Pegula ends Sabalenka’s perfect Wuhan record to set up all-American final against Gauff

Jessica Pegula produced one of the most dramatic comebacks of her season, defeating world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka 2–6, 6–4, 7–6(2) in a thrilling Wuhan Open semi-final on Saturday. The sixth seed battled through fatigue, pressure, and a two-game deficit in the final set to end Sabalenka’s flawless 20–0 record at the tournament.

The victory sends Pegula into her sixth final of the season, where she’ll face fellow American Coco Gauff for the title. “I can’t believe I came back and won that,” Pegula said afterward, still catching her breath. “I’ve played so much tennis the last few weeks, so many three-set matches, but I feel like I’m really tough right now and using that as best I can.” It was Pegula’s eighth consecutive three-set match and her seventh win in that stretch, a testament to her resilience and mental grit.

Sabalenka’s perfect Wuhan streak comes to an end

Sabalenka entered the match as the defending Wuhan champion and had never lost a match at the tournament. Her early dominance seemed to suggest another routine win, as she raced through the opening set 6–2 in just 40 minutes.

Pegula struggled with her serve early, while Sabalenka’s aggressive returns and deep groundstrokes forced errors at key moments. The American even tossed her racquet in frustration as Sabalenka earned set point with a blistering return winner.

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But Pegula’s composure returned in the second set. Despite losing a 2–0 lead early, she adjusted her tactics, relying on deep baseline play and smarter shot selection to level the match.

A wild third set full of momentum swings

The decider had everything: tension, missed chances, and a nervy finish. Sabalenka appeared in control at 5–3, serving for the match, but Pegula fought back to break twice and lead 6–5. Then, just as victory was within reach, Pegula double-faulted four times while serving for the match, allowing Sabalenka to break back and force a tiebreak.

Rather than crumble, Pegula regrouped with remarkable poise, racing to a 7–2 win in the tiebreak to seal the biggest upset of the tournament. The win was only Pegula’s third in 11 meetings with Sabalenka, but easily her most significant.

Gauff ends Paolini’s streak to set up all-American showdown

In the other semi-final, Coco Gauff overcame Italian Jasmine Paolini 6–4, 6–3 to book her spot in the final. Gauff had lost all three of their previous meetings in 2025, but she turned the tables with a composed and disciplined performance.

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“It was 3–0 this year, but I think we’re even now,” Gauff said afterward, smiling. “It was tough, especially with how well Jasmine returns, but I did what I needed to do to get through.”

The match was a battle of nerves on serve, featuring 11 consecutive breaks at one point — but Gauff held firm when it mattered, sealing the win in 82 minutes. The 21-year-old now advances to her fifth WTA 1000 final and third of 2025, as she continues to establish herself among the sport’s elite.

An All-American Final for the Wuhan Crown

Sunday’s final between Pegula and Gauff marks a milestone moment for American tennis. Both players are in top form, both are mentally tough, and both have made major statements this season.

Pegula, 31, brings experience and consistency, while Gauff’s youth and athleticism promise fireworks. Their head-to-head record stands evenly poised, setting the stage for what could be one of the most compelling WTA finals of the year.

Coco Gauff

Pegula’s comeback against Sabalenka wasn’t just about statistics or rankings — it was about heart, determination, and belief. From 2–5 down in the decider to a match-clinching tiebreak victory, she showed why she remains one of the most dangerous and respected competitors on tour.

Now, as two Americans prepare to battle for the Wuhan Open crown, tennis fans are set for a fitting finale to an unforgettable week.

SportsLigue