Aryna Sabalenka Dominates Pegula to Claim First Miami Open Title
What a performance by World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka! She has finally conquered Miami, capturing her first-ever Miami Open title with an impressive 7-5, 6-2 victory over Jessica Pegula. In just under an hour and a half, Sabalenka showcased her signature power and precision to outmatch the American in what was a rematch of their 2024 US Open final. With this win, she extends her head-to-head dominance over Pegula to 7-2.
This victory marks Sabalenka’s eighth WTA 1000 title, putting her on par with tennis legend Maria Sharapova. Only a handful of players—Serena Williams, Victoria Azarenka, Iga Swiatek, Simona Halep, and Petra Kvitova—hold more WTA 1000 titles since the tier was established in 2009. But what’s even more impressive is that this is Sabalenka’s 19th career singles title, with 17 of those coming on hard courts, her favorite surface. She’s a force to be reckoned with on these fast-paced courts, having claimed three Grand Slam titles, including back-to-back Australian Opens in 2023 and 2024 and the 2024 US Open.
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The match started with some back-and-forth moments, as Pegula put up a strong fight early on. Sabalenka saw an early lead slip but quickly regained control, storming through the latter stages of the first set. She sealed the set in spectacular fashion, firing three consecutive winners and finishing with a crushing forehand.
The second set saw Sabalenka maintain her aggressive form. The defining moment came at 2-1, when Pegula fought hard to stay in the match, saving three break points. But Sabalenka was relentless, cracking two forehand winners to break Pegula’s serve and take a commanding 3-1 lead. From that point on, there was no stopping the Belarusian powerhouse, as she cruised to victory and lifted the Miami Open trophy for the first time.
In the post-match ceremony, Pegula praised Sabalenka’s skill and consistency, acknowledging the incredible level of tennis she brings to the game. “You’re the best player in the world for a reason,” Pegula said. And it’s hard to argue with that.
Sabalenka, who now resides in Miami, was clearly thrilled to claim this title, even joking about the rain that briefly delayed the final. “It was like Miami was crying because I won,” she said with a smile.
With this win, Sabalenka solidifies her position at the top of the women’s game, and with the clay-court season coming up, the question now is: Can she maintain this dominance on a different surface? One thing’s for sure—she’s playing with the confidence of a champion, and the tennis world is watching.
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