Aryna Sabalenka will not get the chance to gain revenge over Coco Gauff after the American was beaten by Elena Rybakina in the US Open semi-finals. Rybakina came from a set down to win 3-6 6-4 6-4 and set up a final against Sabalenka on Saturday.
Rybakina fights back to reach final
Gauff took the opening set after breaking in the sixth game, but Rybakina levelled the match in the second set, capitalising on sloppy play from her opponent. In the decisive third set, Rybakina's power and composure under pressure proved decisive, despite the crowd firmly behind Gauff.
Rybakina will become the new world No 1 when the rankings are updated on Monday. She will face Sabalenka, who beat Jessica Pegula in straight sets to reach the final.
Sabalenka wanted revenge on Gauff
Before knowing her opponent, Sabalenka expressed a desire to gain revenge over Gauff, who beat her in the US Open final three years ago. Speaking about both potential opponents, Sabalenka said: "Both are incredible players. If it's Elena it's gonna be a really tough match. It's gonna be physically and mentally tough."
"If it's gonna be Coco, I need my revenge for the US Open. She's a challenging player as well. She really makes you work for every point."
Sabalenka reacts to losing No 1 spot
Although Sabalenka will not face Gauff, she will have the opportunity to beat the player who will inherit her No 1 ranking. Asked about being knocked off the top of the WTA rankings, Sabalenka said: "I didn't perform well in the middle of the season. Elena took it over & played really well. That's the beauty of sport. Everyone chasing everyone."
"I really understand how tough it is to reach world No 1. It was one of my goals. But right now, not much I could do. She took away the number one position. Not much I can do about that."
"I can only focus on myself and stay in the moment and try to do my best right now. Just keep it tight and maybe I will take it back from her. It does feel a bit weird you can perform well at the tournament and still be taken away the No 1 position. It's okay. It's sport. I love that. That's the beauty of sport. Everyone chasing everyone. It's all about little things you improve and get better at."
