World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka is set to take on Elena Rybakina in a blockbuster semi-final at the Miami Open on Thursday, following impressive quarter-final victories by both players.
Sabalenka continued her dominant run with a straight-sets win over American Hailey Baptiste, securing a 6-4, 6-4 victory. The Belarusian star is now eyeing the prestigious “Sunshine Double,” having already lifted the title at Indian Wells earlier this month—where she defeated Rybakina in the final.
Speaking after her win, Sabalenka acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating that her encounters with Rybakina are always intense and competitive. With a remarkable 21-1 record this season, she also holds a slight edge in their head-to-head meetings, leading 9-7.
Earlier, Rybakina staged a strong comeback against Jessica Pegula, winning 2-6, 6-3, 6-4 to book her place in the semi-finals. The Kazakh player showed resilience after losing the first set, adapting her strategy to counter Pegula’s aggressive play. This victory marked her fifth consecutive win over the American and her third semi-final appearance at the Miami Open.
Rybakina highlighted the challenge of facing Pegula, noting the fast-paced nature of the match and her need to adjust tactics mid-game to turn the contest around.
In the other semi-final, American star Coco Gauff will face Karolina Muchova as both players aim to secure a spot in the final of the prestigious WTA 1000 event.
The stage is now set for thrilling semi-final clashes in Miami.