Sabalenka cruises past Zheng to reach fourth US Open semi-final in a row

Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus, aged 26, advanced to her fourth consecutive US Open semi-final on Tuesday, decisively defeating China's Qinwen Zheng, 21, with a score of 6-1, 6-2.

Earlier this year, Sabalenka triumphed over Zheng to secure her second Australian Open title, and she employed a similar strategy at Arthur Ashe Stadium, where she showcased her powerful forehand to dominate the seventh seed.

Zheng, fresh from winning an Olympic title, appeared fatigued and struggled with her serve, managing to land only 44% of her first serves, which is one of her key strengths.

"She is an extremely aggressive player," Sabalenka remarked. "She is playing remarkable tennis, and it was quite challenging to compete against her."

Sabalenka gained an early advantage when Zheng committed an unforced backhand error, resulting in a service break in the second game. The second seed extended her lead with another break after Zheng sent a forehand into the net during the sixth game.

Maintaining her momentum in the second set, Sabalenka recorded only six unforced errors, while Zheng faltered, losing her serve in both the first and fifth games due to critical backhand mistakes.

The Belarusian executed an impressive backhand winner at the net on the second-to-last point and sealed the match with an unreturnable serve.

Sabalenka's next opponent will be American Emma Navarro.

She previously defeated the 13th seed Navarro in the fourth round at Roland Garros but faced a loss to her on the hard courts at Indian Wells earlier this year, expressing her anticipation for a challenging match.

"She is an excellent player," Sabalenka stated. "I have observed her performances here; she is playing outstanding tennis, and I am looking forward to an exciting battle against her."