Aryna Sabalenka secured her first title since the Australian Open in January by defeating Jessica Pegula in the Cincinnati Open final.
The Belarusian athlete completed the match in 76 minutes, winning 6-3, 7-5, marking the 15th title of her career and her sixth at the WTA 1,000 level.
This victory ended American Pegula’s nine-match winning streak. Pegula had recently defended her Canadian Open title.
In her courtside interview with Sky Sports, Sabalenka shared, “This trophy means a lot, it is a really big achievement, especially coming after injury, with this fear of getting injured again.” She continued, “My team did everything they could to make sure I felt as good as I can and I am proud of myself I was able to handle all of those emotions.”
Sabalenka, who missed Wimbledon due to a shoulder injury, will now replace Coco Gauff as the new world number two. She dominated the first set after breaking serve in the fourth game.
Although Pegula managed to break back and level the second set at 5-5, Sabalenka regained her momentum and secured the win. She celebrated by blowing kisses to the crowd.
The 26-year-old, who defeated world number one Iga Swiatek in the semi-final, will next compete at the US Open, beginning on August 26.
