Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

In a pivotal match of the WTA Finals, Aryna Sabalenka secured her spot in the semifinals following a 6-3, 7-5 victory against Jasmine Paolini on Monday. This win marks Sabalenka’s second consecutive triumph in the group stage of the tournament, which features the top eight ranked players of the year.

Demonstrating her dominance, the world number one quickly established a 4-0 lead in the first set, allowing her to easily take control of the match. Although Paolini fought back in the second set and even faced two set points, Sabalenka managed to hold her ground and ultimately advance in the competition.

Looking ahead, Sabalenka is set to face Elena Rybakina, who has already been eliminated from the tournament, in the final group match scheduled for Wednesday. Currently, Sabalenka is enjoying remarkable form, having won 22 out of her last 23 matches and clinching three titles in four recent tournaments.

A further victory in the upcoming match would guarantee Sabalenka the year-end number one ranking for the first time in her career. Meanwhile, in another match from the Purple Group, Zheng Qinwen achieved a notable win against Rybakina with a score of 7-6 (4), 3-6, 6-1. This victory was significant for Zheng as it was her first success over Rybakina in three attempts, keeping her hopes of advancing alive.

Elena Rybakina, sitting at 0-2 and unable to make it to the semifinals, previously lost to Paolini on Saturday. In her opening match in Saudi Arabia, Sabalenka had a straightforward win against Zheng. The upcoming clash between Zheng and Paolini promises excitement, with the victor earning a spot in the semifinals to face the winner from the Orange Group.