Sabalenka calls Anisimova win “perfect preparation” ahead of Rybakina final

Overview

• Aryna Sabalenka is all set to play her first WTA Finals final against Elena Rybakina.
• Sabalenka defeated Amanda Anisimova 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 in the semi-final.
• Rybakina overcame Jessica Pegula 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 in another semi-final.

World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka is all set to play her first WTA Finals final against Elena Rybakina after a hard-fought 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 victory over Amanda Anisimova in the semi-final.

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After the win, Sabalenka praised Anisimova for always challenging her to bring out her best tennis and said the match was ideal preparation for the final. "She's always pushing me to play my best tennis," Sabalenka said. "Honestly, I wouldn't care if I lost this match because I think we played an incredible match and both deserved this place in the final. It's going to be another powerful game. I feel like today was great preparation for Elena. I'm looking forward to leaving everything I have in the last match of the season and fight for this beautiful trophy."

"I will try to give it all tomorrow and against Aryna." - Rybakina

On the other hand, Rybakina overcame Jessica Pegula 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 in another semi-final. She dominated with her powerful serve, which proved crucial in key moments. "It's my biggest weapon and I think it worked really well. Some moments, when I needed it the most, it worked - even though she was really playing well and pushing me in the tough situations," Rybakina said.

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Speaking to WTA TV after the match, the Kazakh star acknowledged the challenge awaiting her in the final. “Of course I will try to give it all tomorrow and against Aryna. Someone who is very aggressive, always tries to put pressure on you with great serve also,” she said.

“It’s going to be very difficult, a lot mental. So I feel like when it would come to some close score but we will see how it’s gonna go and I will definitely try to recover and do my best and give it all,” she added.