NEW DELHI: Aryna Sabalenka staged an impressive comeback from the brink of defeat to triumph over the 17th-seeded American Madison Keys in a third-set tie-break, securing her spot in the US Open final against the hometown favorite, Coco Gauff.
In the second set, Keys had the opportunity to serve for the match, but Sabalenka, who is set to become the world number one, mounted a remarkable comeback against the 2017 runner-up. Sabalenka secured the victory with a scoreline of 0-6, 7-6 (7/1), 7-6 (10/5), earning her ticket to her second Grand Slam final.
"She played incredible tennis, it was just another level. Somehow, I don't know how I turned around this match," said Sabalenka, the second seed.
"It really means a lot to be in the final of the US Open for the first time."
Sabalenka rode an emotional rollercoaster, angrily remonstrating with her coaching team at times, before being able to sheepishly laugh off celebrating prematurely in the decisive tie-break.
"I thought that we play tie-break up to till seven," she said. "I was just all over the place."
The Australian Open champion will bid for her second Grand Slam title on Saturday against the 19-year-old Gauff. The American holds a 3-2 edge but this will be their first meeting at a major.
"She's an unbelievable player," said Sabalenka. "The crowd will be supporting her a lot. I will do everything I can. I'll be fighting for every point and I will do my best."
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