World number one Aryna Sabalenka had to dig deep to overcome fourth-seeded Amanda Anisimova 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 in a high-octane semi-final at the WTA Finals in Riyadh on Friday.&nbsp;The Belarusian four-time major winner roared her way to a championship showdown with Kazakhstan's Elena Rybakina, who battled past fifth-seeded Jessica Pegula 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 earlier at King Saud University Indoor Arena.&nbsp;Sabalenka clocked 12 aces and saved six of nine break points to book her place in the final for a second time in five appearances at the season-ending championships.&nbsp;"She always pushes me to play my best tennis," said Sabalenka, who gave Anisimova a warm embrace at the net after the match.&nbsp;"Honestly, I wouldn't care if I would lose this match because we both played an incredible match and we both deserve to be in the final.&nbsp;"I'm super happy to get the win. I told Amanda that she should be proud of her season, she played incredible tennis the whole season, but it's just the beginning for her. There are many good things coming her way for sure."&nbsp;Both Sabalenka and Rybakina are undefeated through four matches so far this week and have a chance of earning a record $5.235 million with a victory in Saturday's final.Rybakina claimed a 10th consecutive win on Friday by beating Pegula to reach the championship match at the WTA Finals for the first time in three appearances.&nbsp;"When I came here, I didn't have many expectations. I'm very happy the way I played in Asia but at the same time, I was quite tired," said Rybakina, who won the title in Ningbo and made the semi-finals in Tokyo to secure the final qualifying spot for Riyadh at the very last chance.&nbsp;"So, for me, it was okay, last week, last push, let's see what's going to happen. And yeah, I didn't expect to go that far."&nbsp;Two of the biggest hitters on tour, Sabalenka and Anisimova have built one a riveting rivalry. They were squaring off for a fourth time this season (Roland Garros, Wimbledon, US Open, Riyadh).&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Sabalenka saved all five break points she faced and converted two of the eight she created to scoop a highly-competitive opening set in 60 minutes.&nbsp;Anisimova came out blazing in the second frame, breaking twice for a 4-0 gap. The American was punishing Sabalenka's second serve and pouncing on every short ball.&nbsp;She was broken while serving for the set but recovered immediately to take the contest into a decider.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;The moment of truth came in game seven for Sabalenka, who pulled off some incredible shots to break Anisimova for a 4-3 advantage.&nbsp;With both players unleashing missiles from all corners of the court, Sabalenka found her best when she needed it most to claim her fifth victory from 11 meetings with Anisimova.&nbsp;In the earlier semi-final, Rybakina fired 15 aces and won 73 percent of her first-serve points on her way to a hard-fought win.&nbsp;The 26-year-old Rybakina has a shot at clinching her biggest title since 2022 Wimbledon.The Dubai resident is just the third player representing an Asian nation – after Zheng Qinwen and Li Na – to reach the final of this event. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Aryna Sabalenka clocked 12 aces and saved six of nine break points to book her place in the final for a second time in five appearances at the season-ending championships.

World number one Aryna Sabalenka had to dig deep to overcome fourth-seeded Amanda Anisimova 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 in a high-octane semi-final at the WTA Finals in Riyadh on Friday. The Belarusian four-time major winner roared her way to a championship showdown with Kazakhstan's Elena Rybakina, who battled past fifth-seeded Jessica Pegula 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 earlier at King Saud University Indoor Arena. Sabalenka clocked 12 aces and saved six of nine break points to book her place in the final for a second time in five appearances at the season-ending championships. "She always pushes me to play my best tennis," said Sabalenka, who gave Anisimova a warm embrace at the net after the match. "Honestly, I wouldn't care if I would lose this match because we both played an incredible match and we both deserve to be in the final. "I'm super happy to get the win. I told Amanda that she should be proud of her season, she played incredible tennis the whole season, but it's just the beginning for her. There are many good things coming her way for sure." Both Sabalenka and Rybakina are undefeated through four matches so far this week and have a chance of earning a record $5.235 million with a victory in Saturday's final. Rybakina claimed a 10th consecutive win on Friday by beating Pegula to reach the championship match at the WTA Finals for the first time in three appearances. "When I came here, I didn't have many expectations. I'm very happy the way I played in Asia but at the same time, I was quite tired," said Rybakina, who won the title in Ningbo and made the semi-finals in Tokyo to secure the final qualifying spot for Riyadh at the very last chance. "So, for me, it was okay, last week, last push, let's see what's going to happen. And yeah, I didn't expect to go that far." Two of the biggest hitters on tour, Sabalenka and Anisimova have built one a riveting rivalry. They were squaring off for a fourth time this season (Roland Garros, Wimbledon, US Open, Riyadh). ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Sabalenka saved all five break points she faced and converted two of the eight she created to scoop a highly-competitive opening set in 60 minutes. Anisimova came out blazing in the second frame, breaking twice for a 4-0 gap. The American was punishing Sabalenka's second serve and pouncing on every short ball. She was broken while serving for the set but recovered immediately to take the contest into a decider. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes The moment of truth came in game seven for Sabalenka, who pulled off some incredible shots to break Anisimova for a 4-3 advantage. With both players unleashing missiles from all corners of the court, Sabalenka found her best when she needed it most to claim her fifth victory from 11 meetings with Anisimova. In the earlier semi-final, Rybakina fired 15 aces and won 73 percent of her first-serve points on her way to a hard-fought win. The 26-year-old Rybakina has a shot at clinching her biggest title since 2022 Wimbledon. The Dubai resident is just the third player representing an Asian nation – after Zheng Qinwen and Li Na – to reach the final of this event. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Aryna Sabalenka clocked 12 aces and saved six of nine break points to book her place in the final for a second time in five appearances at the season-ending championships.

WTA Finals: Aryna Sabalenka beats Amanda Anisimova in pulsating semis

Coco Gauff became the youngest player to win the WTA Finals title in 20 years with a gruelling 3-6, 6-4, 7-6 (7/2) victory over Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen in Riyadh on Saturday. The 20-year-old Gauff rallied back from 3-6, 1-3 down, and erased a one-break deficit twice in the decider, to overcome Zheng in three hours and four minutes – the second-longest WTA final in 2024.

"This means a lot to me," said Gauff. "This is the first professional women's tennis event here in Saudi Arabia and I'll forever be etched in history in that standard."

"It's the second biggest title in our sport, so it means a lot. And just to be etched in history forever, it's pretty cool and hopefully there's more events here."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/inter-miami-lionel-messi-out-in-first-round-of-mls-cup-playoffs-774911">Inter Miami, Lionel Messi out in first round of MLS Cup playoffs</a>

By clinching the trophy, Gauff pocketed a record $4,805,000, which is the largest ever payout at a professional, sanctioned tour event.

Gauff had knocked out the world's top two players, Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek, en route to the final and picked up her fourth top-eight win of the week with an impressive physical performance against Zheng.

The American was unaware she had earned a record prize cheque and laughed when she was told how much she made by a reporter.

"I don't know what I'll do with it, that's a lot of money. What you said? 4.8 (million)? I hope I'm one of the highest paid female tennis players this year, or athletes, so that would be exciting," she said.

Zheng is just the second Asian woman, behind Li Na in 2013, to reach the singles championship match at a WTA Finals.

The Chinese star wraps up her breakthrough 2024 campaign having won 31 of her last 37 matches, and will rise to a career-high number five in the world on Monday.

"The match today came down to just a couple of important points. It was very close. And at the end, when you play these type of matches, it's not about tennis, it's about choices on court," said Zheng. "It hurts to lose this match of course but I think it's better I forget it and move on for my next steps."

<h2>Youngest finalists in two decades</h2>

Contesting the youngest final at the WTA Finals since Maria Sharapova's win over Serena Williams in 2004, Gauff and Zheng, 22, brought their A-game from the start.

It was Zheng who faced more pressure on serve in the opening games, saving a number of break points to keep things on level terms with her American opponent.

The rallies got longer and more physically taxing and it was Gauff who cracked first, double-faulting to hand Zheng a 5-3 lead.

Zheng had to save a break point while serving for the set, which she closed on a netted backhand from Gauff.&nbsp;

The seventh seed kept up her momentum and clinched a fifth game in a row to go up 2-0 early in the second set.

Gauff stopped the bleeding though and fought her way back to level for 3-3, finally claiming her first break of serve on her sixth opportunity of the match. Zheng appeared to have lost a bit of her speed and Gauff took full advantage of the situation.

The American made it four games in a row to put herself in the position to serve for the second set but couldn't close, as Zheng saved a pair of set points to peg her opponent back and break. Gauff retaliated in the next game to scoop the second set and force a decider.

Gauff dropped serve at the start of the final set but pulled off an incredible stretch volley to strike back and even the score 2-2.

Zheng mustered all the power she could, unleashing huge serves and groundstrokes to create another gap and surged ahead 5-3.

Gauff would not relent and once again wiped her deficit. Zheng saved two championship points on her own serve in game 12 and carried the match into a deciding tiebreak.

Gauff was dialled in for the breaker, racing to a 6-0 advantage, and Zheng couldn't catch up as the world number three completed a remarkable comeback victory on her fifth opportunity.

The doubles title in Riyadh was secured by Canadian Gabriela Dabrowski and New Zealand's Erin Routliffe, who avenged their Wimbledon final loss to Taylor Townsend and Katerina Siniakova by defeating the American-Czech duo 7-5, 6-3.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Coco Gauff became the youngest player to win the WTA Finals title in 20 years with a gruelling 3-6, 6-4, 7-6 (7/2) victory over Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen in Riyadh on Saturday.

Coco Gauff became the youngest player to win the WTA Finals title in 20 years with a gruelling 3-6, 6-4, 7-6 (7/2) victory over Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen in Riyadh on Saturday. The 20-year-old Gauff rallied back from 3-6, 1-3 down, and erased a one-break deficit twice in the decider, to overcome Zheng in three hours and four minutes – the second-longest WTA final in 2024. "This means a lot to me," said Gauff. "This is the first professional women's tennis event here in Saudi Arabia and I'll forever be etched in history in that standard." "It's the second biggest title in our sport, so it means a lot. And just to be etched in history forever, it's pretty cool and hopefully there's more events here." ALSO READ: Inter Miami, Lionel Messi out in first round of MLS Cup playoffs By clinching the trophy, Gauff pocketed a record $4,805,000, which is the largest ever payout at a professional, sanctioned tour event. Gauff had knocked out the world's top two players, Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek, en route to the final and picked up her fourth top-eight win of the week with an impressive physical performance against Zheng. The American was unaware she had earned a record prize cheque and laughed when she was told how much she made by a reporter. "I don't know what I'll do with it, that's a lot of money. What you said? 4.8 (million)? I hope I'm one of the highest paid female tennis players this year, or athletes, so that would be exciting," she said. Zheng is just the second Asian woman, behind Li Na in 2013, to reach the singles championship match at a WTA Finals. The Chinese star wraps up her breakthrough 2024 campaign having won 31 of her last 37 matches, and will rise to a career-high number five in the world on Monday. "The match today came down to just a couple of important points. It was very close. And at the end, when you play these type of matches, it's not about tennis, it's about choices on court," said Zheng. "It hurts to lose this match of course but I think it's better I forget it and move on for my next steps." Youngest finalists in two decades Contesting the youngest final at the WTA Finals since Maria Sharapova's win over Serena Williams in 2004, Gauff and Zheng, 22, brought their A-game from the start. It was Zheng who faced more pressure on serve in the opening games, saving a number of break points to keep things on level terms with her American opponent. The rallies got longer and more physically taxing and it was Gauff who cracked first, double-faulting to hand Zheng a 5-3 lead. Zheng had to save a break point while serving for the set, which she closed on a netted backhand from Gauff. The seventh seed kept up her momentum and clinched a fifth game in a row to go up 2-0 early in the second set. Gauff stopped the bleeding though and fought her way back to level for 3-3, finally claiming her first break of serve on her sixth opportunity of the match. Zheng appeared to have lost a bit of her speed and Gauff took full advantage of the situation. The American made it four games in a row to put herself in the position to serve for the second set but couldn't close, as Zheng saved a pair of set points to peg her opponent back and break. Gauff retaliated in the next game to scoop the second set and force a decider. Gauff dropped serve at the start of the final set but pulled off an incredible stretch volley to strike back and even the score 2-2. Zheng mustered all the power she could, unleashing huge serves and groundstrokes to create another gap and surged ahead 5-3. Gauff would not relent and once again wiped her deficit. Zheng saved two championship points on her own serve in game 12 and carried the match into a deciding tiebreak. Gauff was dialled in for the breaker, racing to a 6-0 advantage, and Zheng couldn't catch up as the world number three completed a remarkable comeback victory on her fifth opportunity. The doubles title in Riyadh was secured by Canadian Gabriela Dabrowski and New Zealand's Erin Routliffe, who avenged their Wimbledon final loss to Taylor Townsend and Katerina Siniakova by defeating the American-Czech duo 7-5, 6-3. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Coco Gauff becomes youngest in 20 years to lift WTA title with thrilling win over Zheng Qinwen

American Coco Gauff defeated world number one Aryna Sabalenka 7-6(4) 6-3 in the semi-finals of the WTA Finals on Friday and will take on China's Zheng Qinwen in the showpiece match.

Sabalenka will end the year at the top of the world rankings but her bid for a maiden WTA Finals title was ended by Gauff who reached her first final at the end-of-season event.

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Earlier, seventh seed Zheng overcame battling Czech Barbora Krejcikova 6-3 7-5 to reach Saturday's showpiece on her debut.

It had promised to be a close affair between Sabalenka and world number three Gauff, with the head-to-head record standing at 4-4, and the opening set lived up to expectations.

After trading early breaks, Sabalenka broke again to take a 6-5 lead to serve for the set but Gauff responded, forcing a tiebreak which saw eight breaks of serve over the 11 points.

The American cruised to a 6-1 lead, breaking Sabalenka four times, before the Belarusian broke twice to save the first two set points but Gauff held her nerve to win the first set.

Sabalenka cut a frustrated figure throughout the match and Gauff raced into a 4-1 lead in the second set before the sixth game turned into a marathon affair.

Gauff saved seven break points and at one stage Sabalenka threw her racket into the air but eventually won the game to keep the contest alive. However, the American then broke to love to serve for the match.

Sabalenka rallied and broke again but Gauff kept her cool and, just when it seemed Sabalenka would claw her way back into the tie, the American broke for a fourth time in the second set.

"I'm happy with the way I played, she's world number one for a reason," said Gauff, who can now look forward to Saturday's final against Zheng. "I'm not really nervous to be honest and the year-end I see it as just a plus and being here is a reward for the season I've had," the third seed added.

<h2>Great Start</h2>

China's Olympic gold medallist Zheng, making her WTA Finals debut, got off to a great start against eighth seed Krejcikova, with an early break to take a 3-0 lead.

The Czech saved three set points at 5-2 down but Zheng won the next game to love and took the first set with ease.

The second set looked to be going the same way as Zheng again raced into a 3-0 lead, this time with two breaks of serve, but Krejcikova finally got into her groove, winning the next four games with two breaks of her own.

The next three games went with serve to leave the pair tied at 5-5 before Zheng managed to break again, leaving her to serve for the match. Krejcikova fought hard, saving the first match point, but Zheng finally got the job done.

"It feels so special. This is my first WTA Finals, and now I'm in the final," Zheng said. "She (Krejcikova) is a really good player. We gave a good match. I don't know what happened when I was leading 3-0."

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

American Coco Gauff defeated world number one Aryna Sabalenka 7-6(4) 6-3 in the semi-finals of the WTA Finals on Friday and will take on China's Zheng Qinwen in the showpiece match.

American Coco Gauff defeated world number one Aryna Sabalenka 7-6(4) 6-3 in the semi-finals of the WTA Finals on Friday and will take on China's Zheng Qinwen in the showpiece match. Sabalenka will end the year at the top of the world rankings but her bid for a maiden WTA Finals title was ended by Gauff who reached her first final at the end-of-season event. ALSO READ: PV Sindhu admits having another Olympic medal left in her, says LA28 Games on radar but at one condition Earlier, seventh seed Zheng overcame battling Czech Barbora Krejcikova 6-3 7-5 to reach Saturday's showpiece on her debut. It had promised to be a close affair between Sabalenka and world number three Gauff, with the head-to-head record standing at 4-4, and the opening set lived up to expectations. After trading early breaks, Sabalenka broke again to take a 6-5 lead to serve for the set but Gauff responded, forcing a tiebreak which saw eight breaks of serve over the 11 points. The American cruised to a 6-1 lead, breaking Sabalenka four times, before the Belarusian broke twice to save the first two set points but Gauff held her nerve to win the first set. Sabalenka cut a frustrated figure throughout the match and Gauff raced into a 4-1 lead in the second set before the sixth game turned into a marathon affair. Gauff saved seven break points and at one stage Sabalenka threw her racket into the air but eventually won the game to keep the contest alive. However, the American then broke to love to serve for the match. Sabalenka rallied and broke again but Gauff kept her cool and, just when it seemed Sabalenka would claw her way back into the tie, the American broke for a fourth time in the second set. "I'm happy with the way I played, she's world number one for a reason," said Gauff, who can now look forward to Saturday's final against Zheng. "I'm not really nervous to be honest and the year-end I see it as just a plus and being here is a reward for the season I've had," the third seed added. Great Start China's Olympic gold medallist Zheng, making her WTA Finals debut, got off to a great start against eighth seed Krejcikova, with an early break to take a 3-0 lead. The Czech saved three set points at 5-2 down but Zheng won the next game to love and took the first set with ease. The second set looked to be going the same way as Zheng again raced into a 3-0 lead, this time with two breaks of serve, but Krejcikova finally got into her groove, winning the next four games with two breaks of her own. The next three games went with serve to leave the pair tied at 5-5 before Zheng managed to break again, leaving her to serve for the match. Krejcikova fought hard, saving the first match point, but Zheng finally got the job done. "It feels so special. This is my first WTA Finals, and now I'm in the final," Zheng said. "She (Krejcikova) is a really good player. We gave a good match. I don't know what happened when I was leading 3-0." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

USA’s Coco Gauff downs Aryna Sabalenka to set up WTA Finals clash with China’s Zheng Qinwen

Zheng Qinwen continued to deliver in her breakthrough season as she advanced to the semi-finals of the WTA Finals in Riyadh on Wednesday with victory over Jasmine Paolini, while Elena Rybakina beat the already-qualified Aryna Sabalenka. Picking up a 30th win from her last 35 matches, Chinese Olympic gold medallist Zheng swept past the fourth-seeded Italian 6-1, 6-1 in a mere 67 minutes.

Meanwhile, Kazakhstan's Rybakina claimed a consolation 6-4, 3-6, 6-1 victory over world number one Sabalenka, who had already secured her semi-final spot as the group winner on Monday. Eliminated from the competition after losing her opening two matches, Rybakina found her form against Sabalenka –- a much-needed confidence boost for the world number five after missing the majority of the second half of the season with allergies, insomnia and a back injury.

"It was a tough match and I'm really happy that I managed to win. I think it's nice to finish the year at least with one win against the world number one," said Rybakina, who shared a warm embrace with Sabalenka at the net.

It was only the second loss Sabalenka has suffered in her last 24 matches. Sabalenka, 26, must wait to find out who she will face in Friday's semi-finals, but has reason to celebrate despite defeat as she clinched the year-end number one ranking as a result of Iga Swiatek's defeat to Coco Gauff on Tuesday.

However, the Belarusian said she will not let her new ranking distract her from the task at hand –- lifting the WTA Finals trophy for the first time in her career.

"It's a really great feeling but I figured that last night and it didn't work really well tonight for me so I just want to focus on the current tournament to stay hungry and stay motivated because it's a big tournament and it's also one of my goals, so I'll focus on this goal," Sabalenka said Wednesday.

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- 'Really proud' -

In the last day of round-robin action in the Purple Group, Zheng and Paolini were fighting for the second qualification spot behind Sabalenka. The seventh-seeded Zheng locked down her spot in the final four with a dominating performance against Paolini to become the first Chinese player since Li Na in 2013 to make it out of the group stage at the WTA Finals.

"It was 11 years ago, I'm really proud I could make it. I didn't know what to expect coming to these WTA Finals for the first time. I was in a very difficult group," said Zheng, 22. "It's one of the best performances I had during this year, really good percentage of first serves, I felt really good on my groundstrokes and I made a couple of good volleys, I really enjoyed it."

An aggressive return earned Zheng her first break of the match in game three and the seventh seed doubled her advantage to go up 5-1. Paolini, a two-time Grand Slam finalist this season, saved a set point on her own serve in game seven but Zheng kept her foot on the pedal and closed out the set on her second opportunity.

The second set was just as impressive from Zheng and after saving a break point while serving for the match at 5-1, she wrapped up the encounter with her 12th ace of the match. It was Zheng's fourth victory in as many meetings with Paolini, who won't leave Riyadh just yet as she continues to fight for a semi-final spot in doubles alongside fellow Italian Sara Errani.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Zheng Qinwen continued to deliver in her breakthrough season as she advanced to the semi-finals of the WTA Finals in Riyadh on Wednesday with victory over Jasmine Paolini, while Elena Rybakina beat the already-qualified Aryna Sabalenka.

Zheng Qinwen continued to deliver in her breakthrough season as she advanced to the semi-finals of the WTA Finals in Riyadh on Wednesday with victory over Jasmine Paolini, while Elena Rybakina beat the already-qualified Aryna Sabalenka. Picking up a 30th win from her last 35 matches, Chinese Olympic gold medallist Zheng swept past the fourth-seeded Italian 6-1, 6-1 in a mere 67 minutes. Meanwhile, Kazakhstan's Rybakina claimed a consolation 6-4, 3-6, 6-1 victory over world number one Sabalenka, who had already secured her semi-final spot as the group winner on Monday. Eliminated from the competition after losing her opening two matches, Rybakina found her form against Sabalenka –- a much-needed confidence boost for the world number five after missing the majority of the second half of the season with allergies, insomnia and a back injury. "It was a tough match and I'm really happy that I managed to win. I think it's nice to finish the year at least with one win against the world number one," said Rybakina, who shared a warm embrace with Sabalenka at the net. It was only the second loss Sabalenka has suffered in her last 24 matches. Sabalenka, 26, must wait to find out who she will face in Friday's semi-finals, but has reason to celebrate despite defeat as she clinched the year-end number one ranking as a result of Iga Swiatek's defeat to Coco Gauff on Tuesday. However, the Belarusian said she will not let her new ranking distract her from the task at hand –- lifting the WTA Finals trophy for the first time in her career. "It's a really great feeling but I figured that last night and it didn't work really well tonight for me so I just want to focus on the current tournament to stay hungry and stay motivated because it's a big tournament and it's also one of my goals, so I'll focus on this goal," Sabalenka said Wednesday. Also read: UCL: Inter Milan sink Arsenal, Atletico sting PSG late on as Barcelona back on track - 'Really proud' - In the last day of round-robin action in the Purple Group, Zheng and Paolini were fighting for the second qualification spot behind Sabalenka. The seventh-seeded Zheng locked down her spot in the final four with a dominating performance against Paolini to become the first Chinese player since Li Na in 2013 to make it out of the group stage at the WTA Finals. "It was 11 years ago, I'm really proud I could make it. I didn't know what to expect coming to these WTA Finals for the first time. I was in a very difficult group," said Zheng, 22. "It's one of the best performances I had during this year, really good percentage of first serves, I felt really good on my groundstrokes and I made a couple of good volleys, I really enjoyed it." An aggressive return earned Zheng her first break of the match in game three and the seventh seed doubled her advantage to go up 5-1. Paolini, a two-time Grand Slam finalist this season, saved a set point on her own serve in game seven but Zheng kept her foot on the pedal and closed out the set on her second opportunity. The second set was just as impressive from Zheng and after saving a break point while serving for the match at 5-1, she wrapped up the encounter with her 12th ace of the match. It was Zheng's fourth victory in as many meetings with Paolini, who won't leave Riyadh just yet as she continues to fight for a semi-final spot in doubles alongside fellow Italian Sara Errani. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen into last four of WTA Finals, Aryna Sabalenka loses

Aryna Sabalenka has secured qualification for the semi-finals stage of the WTA Finals with a 6-3, 7-5 victory over Jasmine Paolini, as Zheng Qinwen ended Elena Rybakina's chances of moving on in Riyadh on Monday. With two round-robin wins in as many matches this week in Saudi Arabia, Sabalenka guaranteed herself passage to the final four as the winner of the Purple Group.

The Belarusian top seed is also just one victory away from locking down the year-end number one ranking, which she is in a direct battle with Iga Swiatek. Sabalenka bounced back from 0-2 down in the second set, and saved two set points at 4-5 to overcome Italian fourth seed Paolini and has now won 22 of her last 23 matches on tour.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-wta-finals-china%E2%80%99s-zheng-qinwen-improves-semis-chances-with-win-over-fifth-seeded-elena-rybakina-773253">WTA Finals: China’s Zheng Qinwen improves semis chances with win over fifth-seeded Elena Rybakina</a>

"The second set was quite tricky. Honestly, I just tried to stay aggressive and show her that I'm going to fight for this set no matter what and I'm really happy I was able to win in straight sets," said Sabalenka.

"Halfway through the second set I was already thinking about the third set. But I was like, wait, wait, it's not the third set until it's the third set. I'm happy all those shots on set points went in."

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Aryna Sabalenka has secured qualification for the semi-finals stage of the WTA Finals with a 6-3, 7-5 victory over Jasmine Paolini, as Zheng Qinwen ended Elena Rybakina's chances of moving on in Riyadh on Monday.

Aryna Sabalenka has secured qualification for the semi-finals stage of the WTA Finals with a 6-3, 7-5 victory over Jasmine Paolini, as Zheng Qinwen ended Elena Rybakina's chances of moving on in Riyadh on Monday. With two round-robin wins in as many matches this week in Saudi Arabia, Sabalenka guaranteed herself passage to the final four as the winner of the Purple Group. The Belarusian top seed is also just one victory away from locking down the year-end number one ranking, which she is in a direct battle with Iga Swiatek. Sabalenka bounced back from 0-2 down in the second set, and saved two set points at 4-5 to overcome Italian fourth seed Paolini and has now won 22 of her last 23 matches on tour. Also read: WTA Finals: China’s Zheng Qinwen improves semis chances with win over fifth-seeded Elena Rybakina "The second set was quite tricky. Honestly, I just tried to stay aggressive and show her that I'm going to fight for this set no matter what and I'm really happy I was able to win in straight sets," said Sabalenka. "Halfway through the second set I was already thinking about the third set. But I was like, wait, wait, it's not the third set until it's the third set. I'm happy all those shots on set points went in." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Aryna Sabalenka advances to WTA Finals last four with win over Jasmine Paolini

Barbora Krejcikova ended Jessica Pegula’s chances of qualifying for the semi-finals at the WTA Finals in Riyadh, defeating the sixth-seeded American 6-3, 6-3 in Riyadh on Tuesday.

A runner-up at the WTA Finals last year, Pegula suffered her second straight-sets defeat of the week and enters her final round-robin match against Iga Swiatek on Thursday anchoring the Orange Group with zero sets won.

Meanwhile, eighth-seeded Krejcikova bounced back from her opening loss to Swiatek to keep her hopes of making the final four alive.

"I was fighting for every ball and I felt that I really have to play my best tennis and I was trying to be really solid and trying to put as many balls to the other side as I could," said Krejcikova, who picked up just her 20th match win of the season.

"I’m definitely proud. I had some very high parts of the season, especially winning Wimbledon, that’s something indescribable. And being here in the Finals is a huge privilege. It’s nice to get the win and still be part of the event."

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Despite being ranked number 13 in the world, Krejcikova qualified for these WTA Finals thanks to a new rule introduced by the WTA that gave priority to a player who has won a Grand Slam this season, while maintaining a ranking between 9 and 20, over a player ranked number eight in the Race.

As the reigning Wimbledon champion, Krejcikova claimed the final qualifying spot in Riyadh over world number eight Emma Navarro.

Krejcikova squandered a 6-4, 3-0 lead against Swiatek in her opener two days ago and made sure there was no repeat scenario against Pegula on Tuesday.

The crafty Czech fired 11 aces and broke Pegula four times to wrap up the win in 69 minutes.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Barbora Krejcikova ended Jessica Pegula’s chances of qualifying for the semi-finals at the WTA Finals in Riyadh, defeating the sixth-seeded American 6-3, 6-3 in Riyadh on Tuesday.

Barbora Krejcikova ended Jessica Pegula’s chances of qualifying for the semi-finals at the WTA Finals in Riyadh, defeating the sixth-seeded American 6-3, 6-3 in Riyadh on Tuesday. A runner-up at the WTA Finals last year, Pegula suffered her second straight-sets defeat of the week and enters her final round-robin match against Iga Swiatek on Thursday anchoring the Orange Group with zero sets won. Meanwhile, eighth-seeded Krejcikova bounced back from her opening loss to Swiatek to keep her hopes of making the final four alive. "I was fighting for every ball and I felt that I really have to play my best tennis and I was trying to be really solid and trying to put as many balls to the other side as I could," said Krejcikova, who picked up just her 20th match win of the season. "I’m definitely proud. I had some very high parts of the season, especially winning Wimbledon, that’s something indescribable. And being here in the Finals is a huge privilege. It’s nice to get the win and still be part of the event." ALSO READ | Gautam Gambhir went against team management, defied Rahul Dravid's 'pitch theory' during NZ Tests: Report Despite being ranked number 13 in the world, Krejcikova qualified for these WTA Finals thanks to a new rule introduced by the WTA that gave priority to a player who has won a Grand Slam this season, while maintaining a ranking between 9 and 20, over a player ranked number eight in the Race. As the reigning Wimbledon champion, Krejcikova claimed the final qualifying spot in Riyadh over world number eight Emma Navarro. Krejcikova squandered a 6-4, 3-0 lead against Swiatek in her opener two days ago and made sure there was no repeat scenario against Pegula on Tuesday. The crafty Czech fired 11 aces and broke Pegula four times to wrap up the win in 69 minutes. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

WTA Finals: Barbora Krejcikova ends Jessica Pegula’s last-four hopes

Zheng Qinwen improved her chances of advancing to the semi-finals at the WTA Finals with a 7-6 (7/4), 3-6, 6-1 victory over world number five Elena Rybakina in Riyadh on Monday. The seventh-seeded Zheng rebounded from her opening round-robin defeat by Aryna Sabalenka by claiming her first win from three meetings with Rybakina.

Meanwhile, Rybakina suffered a second defeat in as many matches this week in Saudi Arabia and is facing elimination, with one more round-robin clash to go against Sabalenka on Wednesday.

During her on-court interview, Zheng apologised to the Chinese fans in the stands for "losing control" of her emotions at one point during the match, admitting she was "harsh" in her reaction to them, and thanked them for their support.

"I'm really happy to have won this match because I never beat her before and she's one of the greatest players right now on tour, huge serve and great groundstrokes," said Zheng. "I didn't take my chances in the second set but I was able to come back in the third and I stayed focused.

"I had to stay really focused on my service games, because here, both of us are destroying our serves, it's really tough to return."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-has-to-stop-real-madrid-manager-carlo-ancelotti-sympathises-with-spains-flood-victims-773251">‘Football has to stop’ – Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti sympathises with Spain's flood victims</a>

Zheng arrives in Riyadh on the back of an impressive second half of the season that saw her win titles in Palermo and Tokyo, and an Olympic gold medal in singles in Paris. No woman has won more matches than her within that span.

The first Chinese player to qualify for the WTA Finals since Li Na in 2013, Zheng amassed a 12-2 win-loss record during the Asian swing last month and is the tour leader in most aces struck and percentage of first-serve points won.

Rybakina's second part of 2024 could not have been more different.

The Kazakh had played just two matches between Wimbledon and the WTA Finals as she struggled with allergies, insomnia, and a back injury.

After saving a pair of break points on her own serve in the third game, Zheng made her move, breaking Rybakina en route to a 4-1 advantage.

Rybakina wiped out her deficit, attacking Zheng's second serve, and was soon on level terms at 4-4.

The set fittingly went to a tie-break which Zheng sealed on a long forehand from Rybakina on the 58-minute mark.

In a pattern similar to the opening set, Zheng carved out a lead in the second frame, only for Rybakina to strike back and even the score. This time though, the big-hitter took four games in a row to claim the second set and force a decider.

Zheng shook off early trouble on her serve in the final set before surging ahead 4-1. It was the boost she needed to wrap up the win –- the ninth of her career against a top-10 opponent.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Zheng Qinwen improved her chances of advancing to the semi-finals at the WTA Finals with a 7-6 (7/4), 3-6, 6-1 victory over world number five Elena Rybakina in Riyadh on Monday.

Zheng Qinwen improved her chances of advancing to the semi-finals at the WTA Finals with a 7-6 (7/4), 3-6, 6-1 victory over world number five Elena Rybakina in Riyadh on Monday. The seventh-seeded Zheng rebounded from her opening round-robin defeat by Aryna Sabalenka by claiming her first win from three meetings with Rybakina. Meanwhile, Rybakina suffered a second defeat in as many matches this week in Saudi Arabia and is facing elimination, with one more round-robin clash to go against Sabalenka on Wednesday. During her on-court interview, Zheng apologised to the Chinese fans in the stands for "losing control" of her emotions at one point during the match, admitting she was "harsh" in her reaction to them, and thanked them for their support. "I'm really happy to have won this match because I never beat her before and she's one of the greatest players right now on tour, huge serve and great groundstrokes," said Zheng. "I didn't take my chances in the second set but I was able to come back in the third and I stayed focused. "I had to stay really focused on my service games, because here, both of us are destroying our serves, it's really tough to return." ALSO READ: ‘Football has to stop’ – Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti sympathises with Spain's flood victims Zheng arrives in Riyadh on the back of an impressive second half of the season that saw her win titles in Palermo and Tokyo, and an Olympic gold medal in singles in Paris. No woman has won more matches than her within that span. The first Chinese player to qualify for the WTA Finals since Li Na in 2013, Zheng amassed a 12-2 win-loss record during the Asian swing last month and is the tour leader in most aces struck and percentage of first-serve points won. Rybakina's second part of 2024 could not have been more different. The Kazakh had played just two matches between Wimbledon and the WTA Finals as she struggled with allergies, insomnia, and a back injury. After saving a pair of break points on her own serve in the third game, Zheng made her move, breaking Rybakina en route to a 4-1 advantage. Rybakina wiped out her deficit, attacking Zheng's second serve, and was soon on level terms at 4-4. The set fittingly went to a tie-break which Zheng sealed on a long forehand from Rybakina on the 58-minute mark. In a pattern similar to the opening set, Zheng carved out a lead in the second frame, only for Rybakina to strike back and even the score. This time though, the big-hitter took four games in a row to claim the second set and force a decider. Zheng shook off early trouble on her serve in the final set before surging ahead 4-1. It was the boost she needed to wrap up the win –- the ninth of her career against a top-10 opponent. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

WTA Finals: China’s Zheng Qinwen improves semis chances with win over fifth-seeded Elena Rybakina

Zeynep Sonmez of Turkey roared past American Ann Li 6-2, 6-1 on Sunday to capture the first WTA title of her career in Merida, Mexico, on Sunday. Sonmez, 22, became the first Turkish player to lift a WTA trophy since Cagla Buyukakcay won in Istanbul in 2016 to become the first champion from the country.

World Number 127 Sonmez needed just 70 minutes to overcome Li, a former top-50 player now ranked 111th. Sonmez gained her third break of the opening set for a 5-2 lead and pocketed the set after 42 minutes.

She broke Li three times in the second set, winning the last six games to polish off the dominant victory. "It was one of my biggest dreams. I've been working for this day for 15 years," said Sonmez, who also thanked "the people who saw me in Turkey at four in the morning."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-paris-masters-alexander-zverev-beats-ugo-humbert-in-straights-sets-to-win-title-772986">Paris Masters: Alexander Zverev beats Ugo Humbert in straights sets to win title</a>

Both players pulled double duty on Sunday after rain delays on Saturday.

Li completed a 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 victory over Polina Kudermetova in their rain-delayed semi-final while Sonmez rallied from 4-2 down in the first set to beat 17-year-old Alina Korneeva 7-6 (7/5), 6-2 in their semi-final.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Zeynep Sonmez of Turkey roared past American Ann Li 6-2, 6-1 on Sunday to capture the first WTA title of her career in Merida, Mexico, on Sunday. Sonmez, 22, became the first Turkish player to lift a WTA trophy since Cagla Buyukakcay won in Istanbul in 2016 to become the first champion from the country.

Zeynep Sonmez of Turkey roared past American Ann Li 6-2, 6-1 on Sunday to capture the first WTA title of her career in Merida, Mexico, on Sunday. Sonmez, 22, became the first Turkish player to lift a WTA trophy since Cagla Buyukakcay won in Istanbul in 2016 to become the first champion from the country. World Number 127 Sonmez needed just 70 minutes to overcome Li, a former top-50 player now ranked 111th. Sonmez gained her third break of the opening set for a 5-2 lead and pocketed the set after 42 minutes. She broke Li three times in the second set, winning the last six games to polish off the dominant victory. "It was one of my biggest dreams. I've been working for this day for 15 years," said Sonmez, who also thanked "the people who saw me in Turkey at four in the morning." Also read: Paris Masters: Alexander Zverev beats Ugo Humbert in straights sets to win title Both players pulled double duty on Sunday after rain delays on Saturday. Li completed a 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 victory over Polina Kudermetova in their rain-delayed semi-final while Sonmez rallied from 4-2 down in the first set to beat 17-year-old Alina Korneeva 7-6 (7/5), 6-2 in their semi-final. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Turkey's Zeynep Sonmez clinches maiden WTA title in Merida

Aryna Sabalenka began her quest to secure the year-end number one ranking with a thumping 6-3 6-4 victory over China's Zheng Qinwen in her opening round robin match at the WTA Finals in Riyadh on Saturday.

Australian and U.S. Open champion Sabalenka, who is headlining the first women's professional tennis tournament in Saudi Arabia, packed far too much power for Zheng at crucial points in their fourth meeting of 2024 to stay perfect.

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"She's such a great player. We always have great battles," Sabalenka said. "She plays aggressive tennis. She forced me to step in and go for it. That's why I bring my best tennis and I'm super happy with the first win."

In a rematch of their Melbourne and Wuhan title clashes, it was Belarusian Sabalenka who edged ahead in a tight opening set with a break in the sixth game and took the early lead in the contest by holding to love.

Olympic champion Zheng enjoyed plenty of vociferous support at the King Saud University Indoor Arena and led four times in a closer second set but Sabalenka drew level each time and finally broke for a 5-4 lead with a searing forehand winner.

She wrapped up the contest on serve despite a wobble with a double fault, when Zheng sent a forehand long.

The WTA Finals, which features the top eight singles players and doubles teams in the world and has a record prize pot of $15 million, will culminate with the title clashes on Nov. 9.

Winning three round robin matches or reaching the final are some of the ways Sabalenka can retain top spot this year, while closest challenger Iga Swiatek needs to successfully defend the trophy to have any chance of overtaking her.

"It would mean everything to me. It's one of my dreams," Sabalenka said about potentially winning the title after losing in the final when it was held in Fort Worth, Texas in 2022. "I've really worked hard in the last few years. I really hope I'll be able to hold this beautiful trophy one day."

Roland Garros and Wimbledon runner-up Jasmine Paolini then beat 2022 All England Club champion Elena Rybakina 7-6(5) 6-4 in the second match from the Purple Group.

Swiatek takes on Barbora Krejcikova in the Orange Group on Sunday before Coco Gauff meets Jessica Pegula.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Aryna Sabalenka began her quest to secure the year-end number one ranking with a thumping 6-3 6-4 victory over China's Zheng Qinwen in her opening round robin match at the WTA Finals in Riyadh on Saturday.

Aryna Sabalenka began her quest to secure the year-end number one ranking with a thumping 6-3 6-4 victory over China's Zheng Qinwen in her opening round robin match at the WTA Finals in Riyadh on Saturday. Australian and U.S. Open champion Sabalenka, who is headlining the first women's professional tennis tournament in Saudi Arabia, packed far too much power for Zheng at crucial points in their fourth meeting of 2024 to stay perfect. ALSO READ: Lionel Messi’s Inter goes down to Atlanta United in MLS Playoffs, Miami to host decider next week "She's such a great player. We always have great battles," Sabalenka said. "She plays aggressive tennis. She forced me to step in and go for it. That's why I bring my best tennis and I'm super happy with the first win." In a rematch of their Melbourne and Wuhan title clashes, it was Belarusian Sabalenka who edged ahead in a tight opening set with a break in the sixth game and took the early lead in the contest by holding to love. Olympic champion Zheng enjoyed plenty of vociferous support at the King Saud University Indoor Arena and led four times in a closer second set but Sabalenka drew level each time and finally broke for a 5-4 lead with a searing forehand winner. She wrapped up the contest on serve despite a wobble with a double fault, when Zheng sent a forehand long. The WTA Finals, which features the top eight singles players and doubles teams in the world and has a record prize pot of $15 million, will culminate with the title clashes on Nov. 9. Winning three round robin matches or reaching the final are some of the ways Sabalenka can retain top spot this year, while closest challenger Iga Swiatek needs to successfully defend the trophy to have any chance of overtaking her. "It would mean everything to me. It's one of my dreams," Sabalenka said about potentially winning the title after losing in the final when it was held in Fort Worth, Texas in 2022. "I've really worked hard in the last few years. I really hope I'll be able to hold this beautiful trophy one day." Roland Garros and Wimbledon runner-up Jasmine Paolini then beat 2022 All England Club champion Elena Rybakina 7-6(5) 6-4 in the second match from the Purple Group. Swiatek takes on Barbora Krejcikova in the Orange Group on Sunday before Coco Gauff meets Jessica Pegula. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Tennis: Aryna Sabalenka crush China’s Zheng Qinwen in opening round of WTA Finals

US top-seed Coco Gauff advanced to the third round of the WTA Toronto Masters on Thursday with a 6-4, 6-4 victory over China's Wang Yafan. In her first match since&nbsp;being ousted from the Paris Olympics by Croatian Donna Vekic, the 20-year-old American fired six aces and connected on 60 percent of her first serves to dispatch Wang in 88 minutes.

"It was difficult," Gauff said. "I think I made some more errors than I'm used to but overall I think I was building the points the correct way. I just have to do better making those last two balls. "Overall, I'm happy with how I played."

Up next for the reigning US Open champion will be Russian 14th seed Diana Shnaider, who rallied to defeat Poland's Magdalena Frech 2-6, 6-3, 7-6 (7/5).

World number two Gauff is making the transition to hardcourts after a run to the fourth round at Wimbledon and an Olympic stint on clay at Roland Garros. "It would be special to win here, especially I'm trying to get my groove on hardcourt," Gauff said. "I'm not expecting much but I'm just trying to play some good tennis."

Gauff, a semi-finalist at this year's Australian and French Opens, has won six of her seven career WTA titles on hardcourts, the most recent at Auckland in January. Her lone exception is a clay crown at Italy in 2021.

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Two-time reigning Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka advanced as well, eliminating China's Yuan Yue 6-2, 6-2 in 81 minutes. Next in the world number three's path is Britain's 33rd ranked Katie Boulter, who advanced when 13th seed Beatriz Haddad Maia retired from their match after only two games with a lower back injury.

US seventh seed Madison Keys retired with a left thigh injury down 3-0 in the third set against compatriot Peyton Stearns. Latvian fourth seed Jelena Ostapenko rallied to beat Spain's Paula Badosa, last week's WTA Washington winner, by 3-6, 7-6 (7/3), 6-2. Up next for the world number 11 is US lucky loser Taylor Townsend.

Russian sixth seed Liudmila Samsonova reached the round of 16 by ousting Japan's Moyuka Uchijima 6-4, 6-2 while Ukraine's 11th-seeded Marta Kostyuk eliminated compatriot Elina Svitolina 6-2, 2-6, 6-2.

US top-seed Coco Gauff advanced to the third round of the WTA Toronto Masters on Thursday with a 6-4, 6-4 victory over China's Wang Yafan. In her first match since being ousted from the Paris Olympics by Croatian Donna Vekic, the 20-year-old American fired six aces and connected on 60 percent of her first serves to dispatch Wang in 88 minutes.

US top-seed Coco Gauff advanced to the third round of the WTA Toronto Masters on Thursday with a 6-4, 6-4 victory over China's Wang Yafan. In her first match since being ousted from the Paris Olympics by Croatian Donna Vekic, the 20-year-old American fired six aces and connected on 60 percent of her first serves to dispatch Wang in 88 minutes. "It was difficult," Gauff said. "I think I made some more errors than I'm used to but overall I think I was building the points the correct way. I just have to do better making those last two balls. "Overall, I'm happy with how I played." Up next for the reigning US Open champion will be Russian 14th seed Diana Shnaider, who rallied to defeat Poland's Magdalena Frech 2-6, 6-3, 7-6 (7/5). World number two Gauff is making the transition to hardcourts after a run to the fourth round at Wimbledon and an Olympic stint on clay at Roland Garros. "It would be special to win here, especially I'm trying to get my groove on hardcourt," Gauff said. "I'm not expecting much but I'm just trying to play some good tennis." Gauff, a semi-finalist at this year's Australian and French Opens, has won six of her seven career WTA titles on hardcourts, the most recent at Auckland in January. Her lone exception is a clay crown at Italy in 2021. Also read: Paris Olympics 2024: India's Aman Sehrawat ousted in men's wrestling, to battle for bronze medal Two-time reigning Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka advanced as well, eliminating China's Yuan Yue 6-2, 6-2 in 81 minutes. Next in the world number three's path is Britain's 33rd ranked Katie Boulter, who advanced when 13th seed Beatriz Haddad Maia retired from their match after only two games with a lower back injury. US seventh seed Madison Keys retired with a left thigh injury down 3-0 in the third set against compatriot Peyton Stearns. Latvian fourth seed Jelena Ostapenko rallied to beat Spain's Paula Badosa, last week's WTA Washington winner, by 3-6, 7-6 (7/3), 6-2. Up next for the world number 11 is US lucky loser Taylor Townsend. Russian sixth seed Liudmila Samsonova reached the round of 16 by ousting Japan's Moyuka Uchijima 6-4, 6-2 while Ukraine's 11th-seeded Marta Kostyuk eliminated compatriot Elina Svitolina 6-2, 2-6, 6-2.

Canadian Open: US top-seed Coco Gauff ousts Yafan Wang to move ahead

World number one Iga Swiatek became the first player to qualify for the season-ending WTA Finals to be held in Riyadh from Nov. 2-9, the governing body of women's tennis said on Wednesday. The season finale, which features the top eight singles players and doubles teams, will offer record prize money of $15.25 million with increases in 2025 and 2026 after Saudi Arabia signed a three-year deal in April to host the event.

Poland's Swiatek, 23, will aim to defend her singles title. "It's a great feeling to qualify for the WTA Finals for the fourth year in a row," said Swiatek, who has won five trophies this season, including the French Open title, and took bronze at the Paris Olympics.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-paris-olympics-huge-blow-to-india-vinesh-phogat-disqualified-before-gold-medal-tie-for-being-overweight-747939">Paris Olympics: Huge blow to India! Vinesh Phogat DISQUALIFIED before gold medal tie for being overweight</a>

"I hope the performances of the eight best players of the season will give a lot of joy to the fans all over the world."

World number one Iga Swiatek became the first player to qualify for the season-ending WTA Finals to be held in Riyadh from Nov. 2-9, the governing body of women's tennis said on Wednesday.

World number one Iga Swiatek became the first player to qualify for the season-ending WTA Finals to be held in Riyadh from Nov. 2-9, the governing body of women's tennis said on Wednesday. The season finale, which features the top eight singles players and doubles teams, will offer record prize money of $15.25 million with increases in 2025 and 2026 after Saudi Arabia signed a three-year deal in April to host the event. Poland's Swiatek, 23, will aim to defend her singles title. "It's a great feeling to qualify for the WTA Finals for the fourth year in a row," said Swiatek, who has won five trophies this season, including the French Open title, and took bronze at the Paris Olympics. Also read: Paris Olympics: Huge blow to India! Vinesh Phogat DISQUALIFIED before gold medal tie for being overweight "I hope the performances of the eight best players of the season will give a lot of joy to the fans all over the world."

World number one Iga Swiatek qualifies for WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia

Women's tennis on Thursday (April 4) saw a landmark decision being made by the Women's Tennis Association (WTA). The WTA in a historic announcement said it would move the year-end finals to Saudi Arabia. The Arab nation, emerging as a major sporting nation in recent years will host the WTA finals starting from 2024 until 2026. The move will see the top eight women tennis stars compete at the year-end event in both singles and doubles tournament.

<h2>WTA makes landmark decision</h2>

“To have a women’s tournament of this magnitude and profile is a defining moment for tennis in Saudi Arabia. The WTA Finals has the power to inspire far beyond the sport, especially for our young girls and women,” the Saudi sports minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal Al-Saud told&nbsp; Reuters.

Saudi Arabia, which for years was averse to women’s sports and had a strict dress code in place will now host Women's Tennis Association (WTA) finals. The 2024 finals to be held from Nov. 2-9 has moved to the Arab nation from last year’s host Cancun in Mexico.

The move will also see Saudi add to its already rich sports calendar which includes the Liv-PGA merger in golf, WWE’s annual pay-per-view shows and the ever-expanding Saudi Pro League (SPL). The&nbsp;development will now see women’s tennis become a part of Saudi Arabia's sporting calendar. The country already has a dedicated Saudi Grand Prix held annually in Formula One, making it one of the most powerful sports host nations in the world.

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Saudi will become the second Arab nation after Qatar to host the WTA finals. Qatar had hosted the event between 2008 and 2010. While China was the last Asian nation to host the WTA finals in 2019.

<h2>Who are the defending champions?</h2>

Iga Swiatek is the defending singles champion of the WTA finals having beaten Jessica Pegula in the final in 2023. Laura Siegemund and Vera Zvonareva are the defending women’s doubles champions having beaten Nicole Melichar-Martinez and Australia Ellen Perez in the final. Martina Navratilova remains the most successful player in the final having won eight singles titles and 13 in doubles.

Women's tennis on Thursday (April 4) saw a landmark decision being made by the Women's Tennis Association (WTA). The WTA in a historic announcement said it would move the year-end finals to Saudi Arabia.

Women's tennis on Thursday (April 4) saw a landmark decision being made by the Women's Tennis Association (WTA). The WTA in a historic announcement said it would move the year-end finals to Saudi Arabia. The Arab nation, emerging as a major sporting nation in recent years will host the WTA finals starting from 2024 until 2026. The move will see the top eight women tennis stars compete at the year-end event in both singles and doubles tournament. WTA makes landmark decision “To have a women’s tournament of this magnitude and profile is a defining moment for tennis in Saudi Arabia. The WTA Finals has the power to inspire far beyond the sport, especially for our young girls and women,” the Saudi sports minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal Al-Saud told Reuters. Saudi Arabia, which for years was averse to women’s sports and had a strict dress code in place will now host Women's Tennis Association (WTA) finals. The 2024 finals to be held from Nov. 2-9 has moved to the Arab nation from last year’s host Cancun in Mexico. The move will also see Saudi add to its already rich sports calendar which includes the Liv-PGA merger in golf, WWE’s annual pay-per-view shows and the ever-expanding Saudi Pro League (SPL). The development will now see women’s tennis become a part of Saudi Arabia's sporting calendar. The country already has a dedicated Saudi Grand Prix held annually in Formula One, making it one of the most powerful sports host nations in the world. ALSO READ | Tennis: WTA finals to be held in Saudi Arabia starting 2024 in landmark move Saudi will become the second Arab nation after Qatar to host the WTA finals. Qatar had hosted the event between 2008 and 2010. While China was the last Asian nation to host the WTA finals in 2019. Who are the defending champions? Iga Swiatek is the defending singles champion of the WTA finals having beaten Jessica Pegula in the final in 2023. Laura Siegemund and Vera Zvonareva are the defending women’s doubles champions having beaten Nicole Melichar-Martinez and Australia Ellen Perez in the final. Martina Navratilova remains the most successful player in the final having won eight singles titles and 13 in doubles.

Tennis: WTA finals to be held in Saudi Arabia starting 2024 in landmark move

American Jessica Pegula powered into the semi-finals of the season-ending WTA Finals in Cancun on Thursday, beating Maria Sakkari 6-3, 6-2 to complete an unbeaten run through the group stage. Pegula, the oldest player in the field at 29, had already clinched her spot in Saturday's semi-finals and Sakkari was already out of contention before the match on the Mexican outdoor hardcourts.

World number one Aryna Sabalenka and fourth-ranked Elena Rybakina were fighting to move through as second in the group when their weather disrupted match was halted for the night with Sabalenka leading 6-2, 3-5. Rybakina will be serving to level the match when play resumes on Friday.

Pegula, who went winless last year in her WTA Finals debut, seized control early, leading 4-1 in the opening set on the way to a dominant victory in difficult, windy conditions. She took full advantage of 35 unforced errors from Greece's Sakkari, including eight double faults, Pegula reaching the last four without dropping a set.

Pegula was pleased to keep things rolling in the unfavorable conditions, saying she tried to play to the middle of the court and keep down mistakes. "It's so tough to play in these conditions," she told Tennis Channel. "You're trying to do your best and as soon as you get some momentum, you still feel like you could lose it.

"If you just stop moving your feet for one second, you get one unlucky shot. So you're very on edge. "It was crazy out there today," added Pegula, the first American to reach the final four since Sloane Stephens made the final in Singapore in 2018. Pegula's brisk run through her group matches included an upset of Sabalenka, whose clash with Rybakina was a rematch of the Australian Open final.

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Sabalenka, of Belarus, triumphed in three sets for her first major title in Melbourne, pushing her career record against Rybakina to 4-0 before the 24-year-old from Kazakhstan won two straight, in the Indian Wells final in March and in the quarter-finals at Beijing last month. Sabalenka, who is one of several players who have complained about the condition of the court at this week's tournament, is not only gunning for the prestigious title.

She's also aiming to take the year-end number one ranking, which could still be claimed by Poland's reigning French Open champion Iga Swiatek. Swiatek will be in action on Friday closing out group play against Ons Jabeur. US Open champion Coco Gauff takes on Marketa Vondrousova with all four players in that group still technically in the hunt for semi-final

American Jessica Pegula powered into the semi-finals of the season-ending WTA Finals in Cancun on Thursday, beating Maria Sakkari 6-3, 6-2 to complete an unbeaten run through the group stage.

American Jessica Pegula powered into the semi-finals of the season-ending WTA Finals in Cancun on Thursday, beating Maria Sakkari 6-3, 6-2 to complete an unbeaten run through the group stage. Pegula, the oldest player in the field at 29, had already clinched her spot in Saturday's semi-finals and Sakkari was already out of contention before the match on the Mexican outdoor hardcourts. World number one Aryna Sabalenka and fourth-ranked Elena Rybakina were fighting to move through as second in the group when their weather disrupted match was halted for the night with Sabalenka leading 6-2, 3-5. Rybakina will be serving to level the match when play resumes on Friday. Pegula, who went winless last year in her WTA Finals debut, seized control early, leading 4-1 in the opening set on the way to a dominant victory in difficult, windy conditions. She took full advantage of 35 unforced errors from Greece's Sakkari, including eight double faults, Pegula reaching the last four without dropping a set. Pegula was pleased to keep things rolling in the unfavorable conditions, saying she tried to play to the middle of the court and keep down mistakes. "It's so tough to play in these conditions," she told Tennis Channel. "You're trying to do your best and as soon as you get some momentum, you still feel like you could lose it. "If you just stop moving your feet for one second, you get one unlucky shot. So you're very on edge. "It was crazy out there today," added Pegula, the first American to reach the final four since Sloane Stephens made the final in Singapore in 2018. Pegula's brisk run through her group matches included an upset of Sabalenka, whose clash with Rybakina was a rematch of the Australian Open final. Also Read: NBA: Mark Cuban sells majority stake of Dallas Mavericks to Casino tycoon Miriam Adelson Sabalenka, of Belarus, triumphed in three sets for her first major title in Melbourne, pushing her career record against Rybakina to 4-0 before the 24-year-old from Kazakhstan won two straight, in the Indian Wells final in March and in the quarter-finals at Beijing last month. Sabalenka, who is one of several players who have complained about the condition of the court at this week's tournament, is not only gunning for the prestigious title. She's also aiming to take the year-end number one ranking, which could still be claimed by Poland's reigning French Open champion Iga Swiatek. Swiatek will be in action on Friday closing out group play against Ons Jabeur. US Open champion Coco Gauff takes on Marketa Vondrousova with all four players in that group still technically in the hunt for semi-final

Tennis: American Jessica Pegula beats Maria Sakkari to complete unbeaten group stage run

World number one Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus grabbed a 6-2 3-5 lead over fourth-ranked Elena Rybakina and boosted her chances of securing a semi-final berth at the WTA Finals in Cancun before play was suspended due to rain on Thursday night. Sabalenka, who powered past Greek Maria Sakkari but lost to Jessica Pegula, put on a dominant performance in the first set against the big-serving Kazakh as rain caused multiple interruptions in what was a rematch of the Australian Open final.

Rybakina found her groove during the second set before play was suspended for the night in Mexico. "Play is suspended for the night due to rain," the WTA said on X, formerly known as Twitter.

"The conclusion of this match and (Coco) Gauff/Pegula vs. (Laura) Siegemund/(Vera) Zvonareva will be moved to Friday's Order of Play." Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek are in contention for the year-end number-one singles ranking. The Australian Open champion overtook the four-time major winner Swiatek and captured the top spot after the U.S. Open.

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The 25-year-old Sabalenka will retain the number one spot if she goes undefeated in round-robin play or makes the final. American Pegula booked a semi-final spot at the season-ending tournament with a 6-3 6-2 victory over Sakkari, who came into the match knowing she was already eliminated.

World number one Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus grabbed a 6-2 3-5 lead over fourth-ranked Elena Rybakina and boosted her chances of securing a semi-final berth at the WTA Finals in Cancun before play was suspended due to rain on Thursday night.

World number one Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus grabbed a 6-2 3-5 lead over fourth-ranked Elena Rybakina and boosted her chances of securing a semi-final berth at the WTA Finals in Cancun before play was suspended due to rain on Thursday night. Sabalenka, who powered past Greek Maria Sakkari but lost to Jessica Pegula, put on a dominant performance in the first set against the big-serving Kazakh as rain caused multiple interruptions in what was a rematch of the Australian Open final. Rybakina found her groove during the second set before play was suspended for the night in Mexico. "Play is suspended for the night due to rain," the WTA said on X, formerly known as Twitter. "The conclusion of this match and (Coco) Gauff/Pegula vs. (Laura) Siegemund/(Vera) Zvonareva will be moved to Friday's Order of Play." Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek are in contention for the year-end number-one singles ranking. The Australian Open champion overtook the four-time major winner Swiatek and captured the top spot after the U.S. Open. Also Read: 'Rohit & Kohli were crying': Ashwin recalls India's CWC 2023 final loss, hails Hitman's leadership The 25-year-old Sabalenka will retain the number one spot if she goes undefeated in round-robin play or makes the final. American Pegula booked a semi-final spot at the season-ending tournament with a 6-3 6-2 victory over Sakkari, who came into the match knowing she was already eliminated.

Tennis: Aryna Sabalenka grabs lead vs Elena Rybakina in WTA Finals before heavy rain suspends match

World number one Aryna Sabalenka defeated Elena Rybakina 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 in a rain-disrupted group match on Friday to book a semi-final clash with Iga Swiatek at the WTA Finals. The Belarusian, who finished second in her group behind unbeaten American Jessica Pegula, kept her bid for the year-end number one ranking on track with a victory that took two days to complete.

She had won the first set but was trailing in the second when play was halted Thursday night after multiple rain delays.Some 16 hours later, she and Rybakina returned to the outdoor hardcourts in Cancun, where fourth-ranked Rybakina of Kazakhstan calmly served out the second set to level the match in a matter of minutes.

Australian Open champion Sabalenka dug deep to halt Rybakina's momentum in the opening game of the third set, surviving nine deuces and two break points to hold serve. She used a pair of ferocious forehands to break Rybakina in the fourth game.

World number two Swiatek then downed sixth-seeded Ons Jabeur 6-1, 6-2 in just 67 minutes to finish top of her group with a perfect 3-0 record. US Open champion Coco Gauff closed out group play with a 5-7, 7-6 (7/4), 6-3 victory over Wimbledon winner Marketa Vondrousova and advanced to the semi-finals -- her place secured after Swiatek's win.

Gauff will face fellow American Pegula in the semi-finals, but it's the clash between Sabalenka and Swiatek that will be in the spotlight. If Sabalenka wins, she will finish the year ranked number one in the world, but if Swiatek triumphs she could regain the top spot if she goes on to win the title.

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It's a rematch of last year's semi-final in Fort Worth, Texas, where Sabalenka won 6-2, 2-6, 6-1. The two have split their two meetings this season, both on clay. Swiatek, the reigning French Open champion won the Stuttgart final, while Sabalenka took Madrid.

The clash between Gauff and Pegula will be the first all-American semi-final at the elite season-ending event since the round-robin format was reintroduced in 2003. Blustery winds and intermittent rain again challenged players on Friday.

Gauff shook off multiple rain delays, using an aggressive approach to claim the second-set tiebreaker and continuing to attack in the third. "Obviously, in the wind, it's tough to be as aggressive as you want, because the bounces are weird and the ball was moving," Gauff said. "So I'm glad I made that adjustment and didn't get too frustrated when I missed. You pay the price for hopefully a good reward."

World number one Aryna Sabalenka defeated Elena Rybakina 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 in a rain-disrupted group match on Friday to book a semi-final clash with Iga Swiatek at the WTA Finals.

World number one Aryna Sabalenka defeated Elena Rybakina 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 in a rain-disrupted group match on Friday to book a semi-final clash with Iga Swiatek at the WTA Finals. The Belarusian, who finished second in her group behind unbeaten American Jessica Pegula, kept her bid for the year-end number one ranking on track with a victory that took two days to complete. She had won the first set but was trailing in the second when play was halted Thursday night after multiple rain delays.Some 16 hours later, she and Rybakina returned to the outdoor hardcourts in Cancun, where fourth-ranked Rybakina of Kazakhstan calmly served out the second set to level the match in a matter of minutes. Australian Open champion Sabalenka dug deep to halt Rybakina's momentum in the opening game of the third set, surviving nine deuces and two break points to hold serve. She used a pair of ferocious forehands to break Rybakina in the fourth game. World number two Swiatek then downed sixth-seeded Ons Jabeur 6-1, 6-2 in just 67 minutes to finish top of her group with a perfect 3-0 record. US Open champion Coco Gauff closed out group play with a 5-7, 7-6 (7/4), 6-3 victory over Wimbledon winner Marketa Vondrousova and advanced to the semi-finals -- her place secured after Swiatek's win. Gauff will face fellow American Pegula in the semi-finals, but it's the clash between Sabalenka and Swiatek that will be in the spotlight. If Sabalenka wins, she will finish the year ranked number one in the world, but if Swiatek triumphs she could regain the top spot if she goes on to win the title. Also Read: Global warming threatens Winter Olympics future, organisers soften demand in order to retain potential hosts It's a rematch of last year's semi-final in Fort Worth, Texas, where Sabalenka won 6-2, 2-6, 6-1. The two have split their two meetings this season, both on clay. Swiatek, the reigning French Open champion won the Stuttgart final, while Sabalenka took Madrid. The clash between Gauff and Pegula will be the first all-American semi-final at the elite season-ending event since the round-robin format was reintroduced in 2003. Blustery winds and intermittent rain again challenged players on Friday. Gauff shook off multiple rain delays, using an aggressive approach to claim the second-set tiebreaker and continuing to attack in the third. "Obviously, in the wind, it's tough to be as aggressive as you want, because the bounces are weird and the ball was moving," Gauff said. "So I'm glad I made that adjustment and didn't get too frustrated when I missed. You pay the price for hopefully a good reward."

Tennis: Aryna Sablenka defeats Elena Rybakina in WTA Finals, enters semi-finals

Poland's Iga Swiatek knocked out rival Aryna Sabalenka in the semi-final of the season-ending WTA Finals in Cancun on Sunday (November 5) with a 6-3 6-2 win, putting the world number one ranking within her reach ahead of Monday's (November 6) title match.

A cool and collected Swiatek converted on three of seven break points to set up a final showdown with American Jessica Pegula and she can end the year on top if she is able to hoist the trophy.

The current number one Sabalenka ended Swiatek's WTA Finals campaign in the penultimate stage a year ago but lacked her usual lethal power in Cancun, as a flurry of forehand errors undermined her best efforts. The match began on Saturday but officials were forced to suspend the affair with the Pole 2-1 up in the first set due to inclement weather.

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Swiatek took control immediately when play resumed on Sunday, converting on a break point chance in the fourth game. Swiatek pumped her fists and cheered wildly as Sabalenka sent one into the net on match point.

She next faces an in-form Pegula, who shredded U.S. Open champion Coco Gauff 6-2 6-1 to reach the title match on Saturday evening. Pegula beat Swiatek in their last meeting in the Montreal semi-final.

Poland's Iga Swiatek knocked out rival Aryna Sabalenka in the semi-final of the season-ending WTA Finals in Cancun on Sunday (November 5) with a 6-3 6-2 win, putting the world number one ranking within her reach ahead of Monday's (November 6) title match.

Poland's Iga Swiatek knocked out rival Aryna Sabalenka in the semi-final of the season-ending WTA Finals in Cancun on Sunday (November 5) with a 6-3 6-2 win, putting the world number one ranking within her reach ahead of Monday's (November 6) title match. A cool and collected Swiatek converted on three of seven break points to set up a final showdown with American Jessica Pegula and she can end the year on top if she is able to hoist the trophy. The current number one Sabalenka ended Swiatek's WTA Finals campaign in the penultimate stage a year ago but lacked her usual lethal power in Cancun, as a flurry of forehand errors undermined her best efforts. The match began on Saturday but officials were forced to suspend the affair with the Pole 2-1 up in the first set due to inclement weather. Also Read: NBA: Franz Wagner's 31 points help Orlando Magic beat Washington Wizards; register eighth consecutive win Swiatek took control immediately when play resumed on Sunday, converting on a break point chance in the fourth game. Swiatek pumped her fists and cheered wildly as Sabalenka sent one into the net on match point. She next faces an in-form Pegula, who shredded U.S. Open champion Coco Gauff 6-2 6-1 to reach the title match on Saturday evening. Pegula beat Swiatek in their last meeting in the Montreal semi-final.

Tennis: Iga Swiatek goes past Aryna Sabalenka, reaches WTA Finals

Iga Swiatek erased a 5-2 first set deficit and ultimately rolled to a 7-6(3) 6-0 win over Marketa Vondrousova in the Pole's first match of the group stage of the season-ending WTA Finals in Cancun on Monday. After struggling to find her rhythm early on against the big-hitting lefty, Swiatek crushed an overhead to set up a break point, which she converted on her opponent's backhand error to cut the deficit to 5-3 and seize the momentum.

Vondrousova served for the set a second time at 5-4 but Swiatek broke again with a precise backhand winner up the line for 5-5 as she began to take control of the match, constructing points from the baseline and cutting down on her errors. Swiatek completed the first set comeback on a double fault and a disillusioned Vondrousova went quietly in the second set.

Although she defended her title at the French Open for her fourth Grand Slam title, 2023 has been something of a disappointment for Swiatek, who did not get past the quarters of any of the other majors and lost her world number one ranking. She came into her third WTA Finals with a ton of momentum, however, after winning her first WTA 1000 title of the season in Beijing, and has a chance to retake the top spot from Aryna Sabalenka in Cancun.

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Vondrousova, who made her top-10 debut after emerging as the surprise winner of Wimbledon, is making her first appearance at the season-ending Finals, which features the top eight singles players and doubles teams in the world.

In the other Group B match-up of the evening, American U.S. Open champion Coco Gauff needed just 56 minutes to defeat Ons Jabeur 6-0 6-1 in a rain-delayed clash, making for the fourth straight-set result in the singles tournament so far.

Gauff, who is seeded third in the tournament, will face Swiatek in her next match on Wednesday.

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Iga Swiatek erased a 5-2 first set deficit and ultimately rolled to a 7-6(3) 6-0 win over Marketa Vondrousova in the Pole's first match of the group stage of the season-ending WTA Finals in Cancun on Monday.

Iga Swiatek erased a 5-2 first set deficit and ultimately rolled to a 7-6(3) 6-0 win over Marketa Vondrousova in the Pole's first match of the group stage of the season-ending WTA Finals in Cancun on Monday. After struggling to find her rhythm early on against the big-hitting lefty, Swiatek crushed an overhead to set up a break point, which she converted on her opponent's backhand error to cut the deficit to 5-3 and seize the momentum. Vondrousova served for the set a second time at 5-4 but Swiatek broke again with a precise backhand winner up the line for 5-5 as she began to take control of the match, constructing points from the baseline and cutting down on her errors. Swiatek completed the first set comeback on a double fault and a disillusioned Vondrousova went quietly in the second set. Although she defended her title at the French Open for her fourth Grand Slam title, 2023 has been something of a disappointment for Swiatek, who did not get past the quarters of any of the other majors and lost her world number one ranking. She came into her third WTA Finals with a ton of momentum, however, after winning her first WTA 1000 title of the season in Beijing, and has a chance to retake the top spot from Aryna Sabalenka in Cancun. Also read: Australia union accepts Eddie Jones resignation after Rugby World Cup debacle Vondrousova, who made her top-10 debut after emerging as the surprise winner of Wimbledon, is making her first appearance at the season-ending Finals, which features the top eight singles players and doubles teams in the world. In the other Group B match-up of the evening, American U.S. Open champion Coco Gauff needed just 56 minutes to defeat Ons Jabeur 6-0 6-1 in a rain-delayed clash, making for the fourth straight-set result in the singles tournament so far. Gauff, who is seeded third in the tournament, will face Swiatek in her next match on Wednesday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Poland's Iga Swiatek overcomes early deficit to beat Marketa Vondrousova at WTA Finals

World number one tennis player Aryna Sabalenka has slammed the&nbsp;Women's Tennis Association (WTA) over the organisation of its season-ending Finals. Taking to her social media handle, Sabalenka wrote a lengthy story post&nbsp;wherein she called out the lax organisation of the event.&nbsp;

Even before the start of the event, the Belarusian had expressed displeasure over the choice of the venue. The season-ending tournament is being organised in the tourist city of Cancun in Mexico.

"I am very disappointed with the WTA and the experience so far at the WTA Finals.&nbsp;This is not the level of organisation we expect for the Finals," said Sabalenka.

<h2>Don't feel safe: Sabalenka&nbsp;</h2>

The Australian Open champion said she didn't feel "safe" moving across the court, adding that players hadn't been given adequate preparation time.&nbsp;

"To be honest, I don't feel safe moving on this court a lot of the time, the bounce is not consistent at all, and we weren't able to practice on this court until yesterday for the first time," she added.&nbsp;

Notably, the venue for the Finals was decided in September only after WTA and Saudi Arabia failed to reach an agreement. As a result, the construction of the court on the Mexican resort of Cancun was only completed days before the tournament's start.&nbsp;

"It's just not acceptable to me with so much on the line and so much at stake."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-aryna-sabalenka-wins-her-maiden-grand-slam-after-a-two-hour-epic-556812">Also read |&nbsp;Australian Open: Aryna Sabalenka wins her maiden Grand Slam after a two-hour epic</a>

Sabalenka cleared that her grievances were against WTA and not the local tournament organisers who had been given a difficult task at the eleventh hour.&nbsp;

"All that said, I definitely want to show my appreciation for the local tournament organizers, everyone that built the court at the last minute, and everyone that's working here at the event," she wrote. "I know it's not their fault and I want them to know, as well as all the Mexican fans, that I love them and appreciate them."

The Australian Open champion beat Greece's Maria Sakkari&nbsp;6-0, 6-1 in the opening match on Sunday. She&nbsp;is eyeing the WTA Finals trophy with second-ranked Iga Swiatek challenging for it,&nbsp;

Two groups of four players will compete in round-robin matches through Friday with the two top finishers in each group advancing to Saturday's semi-finals. The final will be next Sunday.

Sabalenka became world number one after her run to the US Open final in September, ending Swiatek's 75-week rankings reign after her debut at number one in April 2022.

(With inputs from agencies)

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World number one tennis player Aryna Sabalenka has slammed the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) over the organisation of its season-ending Finals. Taking to her social media handle, Sabalenka wrote a lengthy story post wherein she called out the lax organisation of the event.

World number one tennis player Aryna Sabalenka has slammed the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) over the organisation of its season-ending Finals. Taking to her social media handle, Sabalenka wrote a lengthy story post wherein she called out the lax organisation of the event. Even before the start of the event, the Belarusian had expressed displeasure over the choice of the venue. The season-ending tournament is being organised in the tourist city of Cancun in Mexico. "I am very disappointed with the WTA and the experience so far at the WTA Finals. This is not the level of organisation we expect for the Finals," said Sabalenka. Don't feel safe: Sabalenka The Australian Open champion said she didn't feel "safe" moving across the court, adding that players hadn't been given adequate preparation time. "To be honest, I don't feel safe moving on this court a lot of the time, the bounce is not consistent at all, and we weren't able to practice on this court until yesterday for the first time," she added. Notably, the venue for the Finals was decided in September only after WTA and Saudi Arabia failed to reach an agreement. As a result, the construction of the court on the Mexican resort of Cancun was only completed days before the tournament's start. "It's just not acceptable to me with so much on the line and so much at stake." Also read | Australian Open: Aryna Sabalenka wins her maiden Grand Slam after a two-hour epic Sabalenka cleared that her grievances were against WTA and not the local tournament organisers who had been given a difficult task at the eleventh hour. "All that said, I definitely want to show my appreciation for the local tournament organizers, everyone that built the court at the last minute, and everyone that's working here at the event," she wrote. "I know it's not their fault and I want them to know, as well as all the Mexican fans, that I love them and appreciate them." The Australian Open champion beat Greece's Maria Sakkari 6-0, 6-1 in the opening match on Sunday. She is eyeing the WTA Finals trophy with second-ranked Iga Swiatek challenging for it, Two groups of four players will compete in round-robin matches through Friday with the two top finishers in each group advancing to Saturday's semi-finals. The final will be next Sunday. Sabalenka became world number one after her run to the US Open final in September, ending Swiatek's 75-week rankings reign after her debut at number one in April 2022. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Tennis: 'I don't feel safe...', Aryna Sabalenka slams WTA for poor organisation of 2023 Finals

Tennis greats Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert have spoken out against the prospect of the WTA Tour staging its end-of-season finals in Saudi Arabia.

WTA chief Steve Simon said in June the organisation was "evaluating" the possibility of taking a tournament to Saudi Arabia, while describing the subject as "difficult and challenging."

Recent reports have said Saudi Arabia is in pole position to land the tour's prestigious WTA Finals tournament, which sees the top eight women players in the world battle it out in a season-ending championship.

However US legends Navratilova and Evert have both voiced objection to a possible move.

"I can tell you 100 per cent if I were still playing, I would not be going (to Saudi Arabia) for the Championships," Navratilova told US tennis journalist Jon Wertheim.

Evert also said she would not support the finals heading to Saudi Arabia, which has lavished hundreds of millions of dollars on sporting events in recent years as part of a strategy critics describe as "sportswashing."

"I would prefer not to go to Saudi Arabia to play the WTA finals," she said during a ESPN media event ahead of the US Open.

"Not that I'm going to go play, but for me, I would prefer the WTA not go to Saudi Arabia."

"Obviously they have the human rights issues and everything, just the way they treat women. I would be against it. But I don't have a vote."

Leading women's players however have been more supportive.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of the US Open on Friday, Tunisia's Ons Jabeur reiterated her stance that she would support a tournament in Saudi Arabia.

"As an Arab player, I'm very excited to be there. I am someone pushing for a change, pushing to give more and more opportunities especially for women," Jabeur said.

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<h2>A great step</h2>

While a move to Saudi Arabia would be controversial given criticism of the Gulf state's record on women's rights, Jabeur insisted that sport could help power change.

"I know in Saudi they're changing things and they're evolving," she said.

"I've been there last year to give a speech and interview. It was very nice meeting a lot of amazing women there. For me, I was trying to push to have something, tennis, there in Saudi.

"I think it's a great step. I think it's something that could help the Arab world to have more tennis players, to get more involved in sports."

American world number three Jessica Pegula said she would not oppose a move to Saudi Arabia if the tournament could have a demonstrable impact on women's rights.

"I think that if you look at a pros and cons list, we'd obviously have to see there be a lot of pros overweighing the cons to feel comfortable going there," Pegula said.&nbsp;

"Whether that's seeing them as a group maybe have to donate money to women's sports or women's rights in Saudi Arabia, to see some sort of change or action going towards helping those causes in their country.&nbsp;

"I think that would be something really important that, if we did end up going there, we would want to see."

Pegula however acknowledged that the decision may ultimately come down to money.

"It's unfortunate that a lot of women's sports, like we don't have the luxury to say no to some things," she said.

"Again, I think if the money was right and the arrangement was something that we could get behind where we could go and create change, then I would be okay playing there."

World number one Iga Swiatek declined to be drawn on the issue, however, merely voicing frustration that players were still waiting for a decision from the WTA.

"I don't have a lot of thoughts because we hear many stuff on tour," Swiatek said. "I'm still waiting for the final decision.

"For sure it's pretty unfortunate and annoying we don't have any decision yet."

On Thursday, the ATP, which runs the men's tour, said the season-ending Next Gen Finals will be hosted by the Saudi city of Jeddah until 2027.

This year's tournament will take place from November 28 to December 2, with a record $2 million prize money.

Jeddah's successful bid makes history as the first official professional tennis&nbsp;event to take place in Saudi Arabia.

&nbsp;

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Tennis greats Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert have spoken out against the prospect of the WTA Tour staging its end-of-season finals in Saudi Arabia. WTA chief Steve Simon said in June the organisation was "evaluating" the possibility of taking a tournament to Saudi Arabia, while describing the subject as "difficult and challenging.

Tennis greats Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert have spoken out against the prospect of the WTA Tour staging its end-of-season finals in Saudi Arabia. WTA chief Steve Simon said in June the organisation was "evaluating" the possibility of taking a tournament to Saudi Arabia, while describing the subject as "difficult and challenging." Recent reports have said Saudi Arabia is in pole position to land the tour's prestigious WTA Finals tournament, which sees the top eight women players in the world battle it out in a season-ending championship. However US legends Navratilova and Evert have both voiced objection to a possible move. "I can tell you 100 per cent if I were still playing, I would not be going (to Saudi Arabia) for the Championships," Navratilova told US tennis journalist Jon Wertheim. Evert also said she would not support the finals heading to Saudi Arabia, which has lavished hundreds of millions of dollars on sporting events in recent years as part of a strategy critics describe as "sportswashing." "I would prefer not to go to Saudi Arabia to play the WTA finals," she said during a ESPN media event ahead of the US Open. "Not that I'm going to go play, but for me, I would prefer the WTA not go to Saudi Arabia." "Obviously they have the human rights issues and everything, just the way they treat women. I would be against it. But I don't have a vote." Leading women's players however have been more supportive. Speaking at a press conference ahead of the US Open on Friday, Tunisia's Ons Jabeur reiterated her stance that she would support a tournament in Saudi Arabia. "As an Arab player, I'm very excited to be there. I am someone pushing for a change, pushing to give more and more opportunities especially for women," Jabeur said. ALSO READ | Virender Sehwag handpicks THIS batter to finish with most runs in Cricket World Cup 2023 A great step While a move to Saudi Arabia would be controversial given criticism of the Gulf state's record on women's rights, Jabeur insisted that sport could help power change. "I know in Saudi they're changing things and they're evolving," she said. "I've been there last year to give a speech and interview. It was very nice meeting a lot of amazing women there. For me, I was trying to push to have something, tennis, there in Saudi. "I think it's a great step. I think it's something that could help the Arab world to have more tennis players, to get more involved in sports." American world number three Jessica Pegula said she would not oppose a move to Saudi Arabia if the tournament could have a demonstrable impact on women's rights. "I think that if you look at a pros and cons list, we'd obviously have to see there be a lot of pros overweighing the cons to feel comfortable going there," Pegula said. "Whether that's seeing them as a group maybe have to donate money to women's sports or women's rights in Saudi Arabia, to see some sort of change or action going towards helping those causes in their country. "I think that would be something really important that, if we did end up going there, we would want to see." Pegula however acknowledged that the decision may ultimately come down to money. "It's unfortunate that a lot of women's sports, like we don't have the luxury to say no to some things," she said. "Again, I think if the money was right and the arrangement was something that we could get behind where we could go and create change, then I would be okay playing there." World number one Iga Swiatek declined to be drawn on the issue, however, merely voicing frustration that players were still waiting for a decision from the WTA. "I don't have a lot of thoughts because we hear many stuff on tour," Swiatek said. "I'm still waiting for the final decision. "For sure it's pretty unfortunate and annoying we don't have any decision yet." On Thursday, the ATP, which runs the men's tour, said the season-ending Next Gen Finals will be hosted by the Saudi city of Jeddah until 2027. This year's tournament will take place from November 28 to December 2, with a record $2 million prize money. Jeddah's successful bid makes history as the first official professional tennis event to take place in Saudi Arabia. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Martina Navratilova, Chris Evert against move to hold WTA Finals in Saudi

France's Caroline Garcia scored the biggest victory of her career with a straight-sets defeat of&nbsp;Aryna&nbsp;Sabalenka to win the season-ending WTA Finals on Monday. Garcia relied on a superb service game to overpower her Belarusian opponent 7-6 (7/4), 6-4 at Fort Worth, Texas.&nbsp;The 29-year-old from Lyon is only the second French player to win the WTA title after Amelie Mauresmo in 2005.

With sixth-seeded Garcia and seventh-seeded Sabalenka serving beautifully throughout, Monday's final was settled by the finest of margins. Garcia seized the initiative in the first set tie-break after both women had held to get it 6-6.&nbsp;Remarkably, neither player conceded a break point during a hard-fought first set. But the question of who would blink first was answered in the breaker as Sabalenka's composure suddenly deserted her.

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A wayward Sabalenka backhand return plopped into the net to give Garcia a 4/2 lead in the tie-break.&nbsp; On the next point, Sabalenka double-faulted to hand the Frenchwoman a 5/2 lead. Garcia brought up four set points with an ace for a 6/2 lead. Although Sabalenka recovered to win the next two points, she double-faulted again to hand Garcia the set. A clearly rattled Sabalenka was soon in trouble in the second set, suffering a break on the first game after Garcia drilled a winner up the line. That break proved decisive as Garcia never looked like surrendering the initiative, holding for the remainder of the set before serving for the match at 5-4.

She earned her first match point when Sabalenka yanked a backhand return wide for a 40-30 lead.&nbsp; Although Sabalenka saved that match point with a backhand down the line, Garcia regained match point with a booming serve before converting on the next point.

France's Caroline Garcia scored the biggest victory of her career with a straight-sets defeat of Aryna Sabalenka to win the season-ending WTA Finals on Monday. Garcia relied on a superb service game to overpower her Belarusian opponent 7-6 (7/4), 6-4 at Fort Worth, Texas.

France's Caroline Garcia scored the biggest victory of her career with a straight-sets defeat of Aryna Sabalenka to win the season-ending WTA Finals on Monday. Garcia relied on a superb service game to overpower her Belarusian opponent 7-6 (7/4), 6-4 at Fort Worth, Texas. The 29-year-old from Lyon is only the second French player to win the WTA title after Amelie Mauresmo in 2005. With sixth-seeded Garcia and seventh-seeded Sabalenka serving beautifully throughout, Monday's final was settled by the finest of margins. Garcia seized the initiative in the first set tie-break after both women had held to get it 6-6. Remarkably, neither player conceded a break point during a hard-fought first set. But the question of who would blink first was answered in the breaker as Sabalenka's composure suddenly deserted her. ALSO READ | Denmark’s Holger Rune stuns Novak Djokovic to clinch Paris Masters A wayward Sabalenka backhand return plopped into the net to give Garcia a 4/2 lead in the tie-break. On the next point, Sabalenka double-faulted to hand the Frenchwoman a 5/2 lead. Garcia brought up four set points with an ace for a 6/2 lead. Although Sabalenka recovered to win the next two points, she double-faulted again to hand Garcia the set. A clearly rattled Sabalenka was soon in trouble in the second set, suffering a break on the first game after Garcia drilled a winner up the line. That break proved decisive as Garcia never looked like surrendering the initiative, holding for the remainder of the set before serving for the match at 5-4. She earned her first match point when Sabalenka yanked a backhand return wide for a 40-30 lead. Although Sabalenka saved that match point with a backhand down the line, Garcia regained match point with a booming serve before converting on the next point.

France's Caroline Garcia defeats Aryna Sabalenka to seal WTA Finals victory

Aryna Sabalenka stunned world number one Iga Swiatek 6-2 2-6 6-1 on Sunday to set up a&nbsp;WTA&nbsp;Finals championship showdown with Caroline Garcia after the Frenchwoman cruised past Maria Sakkari in Fort Worth, Texas. Swiatek had not dropped a set at the season-ending tournament but was subdued by the powerful forehand of the Belarusian, who sealed the massive upset with one of her 12 aces before pumping her fist in triumph.

"The only thing I had in my mind was just make her work. And that's it," Sabalenka said. "It's only because of that I was able to show unbelievable tennis tonight and get this win." After trading breaks early in the first set, Sabalenka, who lost to the Pole in the U.S. Open semi-finals in September, easily converted a couple of chances as Swiatek stumbled with a series of uncharacteristic mistakes.

Swiatek returned with a new resolve in the second set, sweeping the first four games with the momentum seemingly on her side. But world number seven Sabalenka dug in her heels in the third set, dropping only two of her first-serve points without facing a break point to claim her third career win over a number one opponent.

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"I just said that I have to stay aggressive and I have to stay in the moment, that's it," she said. The win set up a rematch with a red-hot Garcia, who beat her en route to winning the Cincinnati title. The Frenchwoman eased past Sakkari 6-3 6-2 to reach her first&nbsp;WTA&nbsp;Finals championship match, sending down 19 winners and six aces to close out the tie in 75 minutes.

Garcia had needed three sets to beat Sakkari in Cincinnati three months ago but had a much smoother time of it on Sunday, breaking the Greek to love late in the first set before carrying the first four games of the second. "My game style today, she didn’t like it," Garcia said. A clumsy double-fault handed Sakkari a sorely needed breakpoint chance in the sixth game but Garcia snuffed out the chance with an ace and maintained the momentum. Garcia thrust her hands into the air as Sakkari whacked the ball into the net on the second match point, bouncing around the court in celebration having reached the biggest final of her career. The&nbsp;WTA&nbsp;Finals championship match is set for Monday.

Aryna Sabalenka stunned world number one Iga Swiatek 6-2 2-6 6-1 on Sunday to set up a WTA Finals championship showdown with Caroline Garcia after the Frenchwoman cruised past Maria Sakkari in Fort Worth, Texas.

Aryna Sabalenka stunned world number one Iga Swiatek 6-2 2-6 6-1 on Sunday to set up a WTA Finals championship showdown with Caroline Garcia after the Frenchwoman cruised past Maria Sakkari in Fort Worth, Texas. Swiatek had not dropped a set at the season-ending tournament but was subdued by the powerful forehand of the Belarusian, who sealed the massive upset with one of her 12 aces before pumping her fist in triumph. "The only thing I had in my mind was just make her work. And that's it," Sabalenka said. "It's only because of that I was able to show unbelievable tennis tonight and get this win." After trading breaks early in the first set, Sabalenka, who lost to the Pole in the U.S. Open semi-finals in September, easily converted a couple of chances as Swiatek stumbled with a series of uncharacteristic mistakes. Swiatek returned with a new resolve in the second set, sweeping the first four games with the momentum seemingly on her side. But world number seven Sabalenka dug in her heels in the third set, dropping only two of her first-serve points without facing a break point to claim her third career win over a number one opponent. ALSO READ | Denmark’s Holger Rune stuns Novak Djokovic to clinch Paris Masters "I just said that I have to stay aggressive and I have to stay in the moment, that's it," she said. The win set up a rematch with a red-hot Garcia, who beat her en route to winning the Cincinnati title. The Frenchwoman eased past Sakkari 6-3 6-2 to reach her first WTA Finals championship match, sending down 19 winners and six aces to close out the tie in 75 minutes. Garcia had needed three sets to beat Sakkari in Cincinnati three months ago but had a much smoother time of it on Sunday, breaking the Greek to love late in the first set before carrying the first four games of the second. "My game style today, she didn’t like it," Garcia said. A clumsy double-fault handed Sakkari a sorely needed breakpoint chance in the sixth game but Garcia snuffed out the chance with an ace and maintained the momentum. Garcia thrust her hands into the air as Sakkari whacked the ball into the net on the second match point, bouncing around the court in celebration having reached the biggest final of her career. The WTA Finals championship match is set for Monday.

Aryna Sabalenka goes past world no. 1 Iga Swiatek, sets up WTA Finals showdown with Caroline Garcia

Coco Gauff qualified for the WTA Finals for the first time on Wednesday, along with French player Caroline Garcia, who will be making her second appearance in the event. Gauff, 18, and Garcia join world number one Iga Swiatek, Ons Jabeur and Jessica Pegula in the singles draw for the finals in Fort Worth, Texas from October 31 to November 7. Gauff will also play in the doubles with partner Pegula, making them the first Americans to take part in the WTA Finals in both singles and doubles since Serena and Venus Williams in 2009.

At 18 years, 239 days old at the end of the event, Gauff will be the youngest to take part since Maria Sharapova reached the semi-finals in 2005, aged 18 and 208 days. Gauff, who moved into the last 16 of the Guadalajara Open with a straights-set win over Elisabetta Cocciaretto on Wednesday, has had a stellar 2022, winning three titles and reaching the semi-finals of the US Open.

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Garcia, 29, returns to the finals for the first time since 2017 when she reached the semi-finals. The top seed in Guadalajara, Paula Badosa of Spain, retired in the second round on Wednesday having lost the first set to two-time Australian Open winner Victoria Azarenka.

Coco Gauff qualified for the WTA Finals for the first time on Wednesday, along with French player Caroline Garcia, who will be making her second appearance in the event.

Coco Gauff qualified for the WTA Finals for the first time on Wednesday, along with French player Caroline Garcia, who will be making her second appearance in the event. Gauff, 18, and Garcia join world number one Iga Swiatek, Ons Jabeur and Jessica Pegula in the singles draw for the finals in Fort Worth, Texas from October 31 to November 7. Gauff will also play in the doubles with partner Pegula, making them the first Americans to take part in the WTA Finals in both singles and doubles since Serena and Venus Williams in 2009. At 18 years, 239 days old at the end of the event, Gauff will be the youngest to take part since Maria Sharapova reached the semi-finals in 2005, aged 18 and 208 days. Gauff, who moved into the last 16 of the Guadalajara Open with a straights-set win over Elisabetta Cocciaretto on Wednesday, has had a stellar 2022, winning three titles and reaching the semi-finals of the US Open. ALSO READ | Jailed Boris Becker teaching inmates how to be fit, behaviour described as 'impeccable': Report Garcia, 29, returns to the finals for the first time since 2017 when she reached the semi-finals. The top seed in Guadalajara, Paula Badosa of Spain, retired in the second round on Wednesday having lost the first set to two-time Australian Open winner Victoria Azarenka.

Teen sensation Coco Gauff reaches WTA Finals for first time

Spain's Garbine Muguruza claimed her first WTA Finals title on Wednesday, defeating Estonian Anett Kontaveit 6-3 7-5 in Guadalajara, Mexico.

After trading breaks early in the match, the sixth seed chipped away at Kontaveit's defences to convert on break point in the seventh game, as the Estonian put up four double faults throughout the first set, got roughly half of her first serves in and struggled with errors.

Playing in the biggest match of her career, Kontaveit regained her composure in the second set, converting on break point in the seventh game.

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But she could not retain the momentum as the two-time Grand Slam winner refused to give in, firing off a mighty forehand winner in the 10th game to level the score and keep the set going.

Muguruza, who won nearly 70% of her first-serve points across the entire match, again broke Kontaveit's serve to clinch the affair, crumpling to the court with her hands over her face before greeting her opponent for a hug at the net.

"I remember when (WTA CEO Steve Simon) and I were in the US&nbsp;Open and he told me that Guadalajara could be a possibility for the Finals and I was like 'Oh my God, I have to make it,' and look now, we're here," said Muguruza, before hoisting the Billie Jean King Trophy in front of an adoring crowd.

"For me it was a dream come true to play here."

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It was Muguruza's fourth appearance at the season-ending finals and her first in the championship match. Her win gave Spain its first-ever WTA Finals title and will see her end the year as the world number three when the rankings are updated on Monday.

She won in Chicago last month and defeated Czech Barbora Krejcikova in March's Dubai final for her biggest title since picking up her second major title at Wimbledon in 2017.

"This is just another proof that I think I'm actually in the best moment of my career," Muguruza said, adding that she will be celebrating with some Tequilla.

"The experience I have now, the tennis, the way I handle myself, I think it's actually much better than before."

Krejcikova and her Czech partner Katerina Siniakova remained undefeated at Guadalajara, the top seeds taking down Hsieh Su-wei of Taiwan and Elise Mertens of Belgium 6-3 6-4 in the final to win the doubles title.

Spain's Garbine Muguruza claimed her first WTA Finals title on Wednesday, defeating Estonian Anett Kontaveit 6-3 7-5 in Guadalajara, Mexico. After trading breaks early in the match, the sixth seed chipped away at Kontaveit's defences to convert on break point in the seventh game, as the Estonian put up four double faults throughout the first set, got roughly half of her first serves in and struggled with errors.

Spain's Garbine Muguruza claimed her first WTA Finals title on Wednesday, defeating Estonian Anett Kontaveit 6-3 7-5 in Guadalajara, Mexico. After trading breaks early in the match, the sixth seed chipped away at Kontaveit's defences to convert on break point in the seventh game, as the Estonian put up four double faults throughout the first set, got roughly half of her first serves in and struggled with errors. Playing in the biggest match of her career, Kontaveit regained her composure in the second set, converting on break point in the seventh game. ALSO READ | ATP Finals: Novak Djokovic clinches semi-final spot with Andrey Rublev win But she could not retain the momentum as the two-time Grand Slam winner refused to give in, firing off a mighty forehand winner in the 10th game to level the score and keep the set going. Muguruza, who won nearly 70% of her first-serve points across the entire match, again broke Kontaveit's serve to clinch the affair, crumpling to the court with her hands over her face before greeting her opponent for a hug at the net. "I remember when (WTA CEO Steve Simon) and I were in the US Open and he told me that Guadalajara could be a possibility for the Finals and I was like 'Oh my God, I have to make it,' and look now, we're here," said Muguruza, before hoisting the Billie Jean King Trophy in front of an adoring crowd. "For me it was a dream come true to play here." ALSO READ: 'I'm fighting for it': Roger Federer out of Australian Open, participation in Wimbledon remains doubtful It was Muguruza's fourth appearance at the season-ending finals and her first in the championship match. Her win gave Spain its first-ever WTA Finals title and will see her end the year as the world number three when the rankings are updated on Monday. She won in Chicago last month and defeated Czech Barbora Krejcikova in March's Dubai final for her biggest title since picking up her second major title at Wimbledon in 2017. "This is just another proof that I think I'm actually in the best moment of my career," Muguruza said, adding that she will be celebrating with some Tequilla. "The experience I have now, the tennis, the way I handle myself, I think it's actually much better than before." Krejcikova and her Czech partner Katerina Siniakova remained undefeated at Guadalajara, the top seeds taking down Hsieh Su-wei of Taiwan and Elise Mertens of Belgium 6-3 6-4 in the final to win the doubles title.

Garbine Muguruza defeats Anett Kontaveit for first WTA Finals title

Anett Kontaveit`s sensational late season form continued as she rolled past Barbora Krejcikova 6-3 6-4 while Karolina Pliskova outlasted Garbine Muguruza 4-6 6-2 7-6(6) as the WTA Finals got underway in Guadalajara on Wednesday. The 25-year-old Estonian Kontaveit captured the 30-minute first set with an ace out wide and sealed the win when an error-prone Krejcikova sent a backhand into the net on match point. 
 
Kontaveit, who was the final singles player to secure her place in the eight-player tournament, claimed four WTA titles this year to surge to world number eight and has now won 11 straight matches. 
 
"I managed to win Cleveland, then it just sort of started rolling from there," said Kontaveit, who also picked up titles in Ostrava, Moscow and Cluj-Napoca. "I`ve been believing in myself a little bit more, and the game definitely has clicked from just getting more wins and playing a lot of tennis and really feeling comfortable, enjoying playing tennis." 
 
French Open champion Krejcikova, who is the only reigning Grand Slam champion in the competition, never found a rhythm on the purple court in the high-altitude Mexican city.

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"The match was difficult," Krejcikova said. "I think Anett, she was playing a solid game, she was serving well." In a battle of former world number ones, Pliskova overcame a slow start to see off Muguruza under the lights in the night session. 
 
After dropping the first set, Pliskova broke Muguruza`s serve to end an eight-minute game and take a 2-0 second set lead she would not relinquish. In the third set, Muguruza saved two match points on her serve at 5-4 and held her nerve to ultimately force a tiebreaker. 
 
But the hard-hitting Czech would not be denied and extended her record to 9-2 against the Spaniard when Muguruza sent a forehand wide to end the marathon third set. The WTA Finals divides the players into two groups of four to play in a round-robin format, with each player competing in three matches. 
 
The top two players from each group will advance to the semi-finals, where the tournament will then use a knockout format. The WTA Finals were not held last year because of the COVID-19 pandemic and was originally scheduled to take place in Shenzhen before being moved because of pandemic-related travel restrictions in China.

Anett Kontaveit`s sensational late season form continued as she rolled past Barbora Krejcikova 6-3 6-4 while Karolina Pliskova outlasted Garbine Muguruza 4-6 6-2 7-6(6) as the WTA Finals got underway in Guadalajara on Wednesday.

Anett Kontaveit`s sensational late season form continued as she rolled past Barbora Krejcikova 6-3 6-4 while Karolina Pliskova outlasted Garbine Muguruza 4-6 6-2 7-6(6) as the WTA Finals got underway in Guadalajara on Wednesday. The 25-year-old Estonian Kontaveit captured the 30-minute first set with an ace out wide and sealed the win when an error-prone Krejcikova sent a backhand into the net on match point. Kontaveit, who was the final singles player to secure her place in the eight-player tournament, claimed four WTA titles this year to surge to world number eight and has now won 11 straight matches. "I managed to win Cleveland, then it just sort of started rolling from there," said Kontaveit, who also picked up titles in Ostrava, Moscow and Cluj-Napoca. "I`ve been believing in myself a little bit more, and the game definitely has clicked from just getting more wins and playing a lot of tennis and really feeling comfortable, enjoying playing tennis." French Open champion Krejcikova, who is the only reigning Grand Slam champion in the competition, never found a rhythm on the purple court in the high-altitude Mexican city. ALSO READ | Austria Ladies Linz: US Open champion Emma Raducanu shocked by China's qualifier Wang Xinyu "The match was difficult," Krejcikova said. "I think Anett, she was playing a solid game, she was serving well." In a battle of former world number ones, Pliskova overcame a slow start to see off Muguruza under the lights in the night session. After dropping the first set, Pliskova broke Muguruza`s serve to end an eight-minute game and take a 2-0 second set lead she would not relinquish. In the third set, Muguruza saved two match points on her serve at 5-4 and held her nerve to ultimately force a tiebreaker. But the hard-hitting Czech would not be denied and extended her record to 9-2 against the Spaniard when Muguruza sent a forehand wide to end the marathon third set. The WTA Finals divides the players into two groups of four to play in a round-robin format, with each player competing in three matches. The top two players from each group will advance to the semi-finals, where the tournament will then use a knockout format. The WTA Finals were not held last year because of the COVID-19 pandemic and was originally scheduled to take place in Shenzhen before being moved because of pandemic-related travel restrictions in China.

Anett Kontaveit and Karolina Pliskova win to commence WTA Finals

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