Cincinnati Open 2024: Aryna Sabalenka beats Iga Swiatek, equals record for most wins against World No 1

Aryna Sabalenka defeated Iga Swiatek in straight sets for the first time to reach the finals at Cinicinnati Open.

Aryna Sabalenka entered the history books after a resounding win against Iga Swiatek in the semifinals of the Cincinnati Open. With a straight set win over Swiatek, Sabalenka has equalled Petra Kvitova’s record of most wins against a world No #1 in WTA 1000 events. Sabalenka defeated Swiatek 6-3, 6-3 and could face Jessica Pegula or Paula Badosa in the final.

Aryna Sabalenka had lost the last three meetings against Swiatek. But at the Cincinnati Open 2024, the Belarusian made sure history did not repeat itself as she dominated Swiatek in an hour and 47 minutes. Sabalenka and Kvitova are now the players with most wins over a world No #1 player in WTA 1000 events.

It has been 15 years since the WTA 1000 event format was introduced on the tour and it sure looks that Aryna Sabalenka will soon overtake Kvitova. Sabalenka’s record breaking win against the Polish player ensures that she will reclaim her No #2 spot in the rankings from Coco Gauff.

The 26-year old had made her WTA 1000 main draw debut at Dubai duty free Championships in 2017 and collected her first win over a No #1 ranked player in 2019 at the Dongfeng Motor Wuhan Open. Sabalenka had defeated Ashleigh Barty 7-5, 6-4 in the semifinals and went on to win the title.

Also Read: ‘We deserve to rest’ – Iga Swiatek complains about tight playing schedule after QF win at 2024 Cincinnati Open

How did Aryna Sabalenka secure the win against Iga Swiatek at Cincinnati Open?

Sabalenka’s serve and return were sharper than ever against Swiatek. The world No #1 could only 20 percent of her second serves and was broken five times in the match. Sabalenka did not hesitate to take the risks and was aggressive with her groundstrokes.

Aryna Sabalenka only conceded two break points and hit five aces while beating Swiatek in straight sets for the first time in her career. Swiatek managed to save nine match points in the match but could only delay her defeat at the hands of Sabalenka.

The two-time grand slam champion will now celebrate her win. She will wait for the second semi-final match of Jessica Pegula against Paula Badosa. Sabalenka will be cheering for her friend Badosa who is making a brave comeback after sustaining a stress fracture on her back last year.

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