Fourteen matches between the world’s top 8 players later, we finally know who will contest the final in Riyadh. In today’s thrilling WTA Finals semifinals in Riyadh, two captivating matches showcased WTA stars and raw power, setting up a finale that promises to be unforgettable.
Semifinal Report one: Zheng vs. Krejcikova
- Result: Qinwen Zheng defeated Barbora Krejcikova 6-3, 7-5
- Date: November 8, 2024
Set 1
Zheng quickly established her dominance in the opening set, using her aggressive baseline play to put Krejcikova on the defensive. With consistent serves and precise groundstrokes, Zheng kept Krejcikova scrambling, eventually breaking her serve to secure a 6-3 win. Krejcikova struggled to find any rhythm under Zheng’s pressure, committing several errors that only added to her challenges.
Set 2
In the second set, Krejcikova raised her level, aiming to disrupt Zheng’s game by mixing up her shots and adding variety. Zheng, however, held her ground, showing resilience and tactical awareness. The set remained competitive, but Zheng’s ability to step up on crucial points led to a decisive break at 5-5. She served out the match to close it 7-5, sealing her place in the final.
Semifinal Report Two: Gauff vs. Sabalenka
- Result: Coco Gauff defeated Aryna Sabalenka 7-6 (5), 6-3
- Date: November 8, 2024
Set 1
The first set was a high-stakes battle, with both players showcasing powerful groundstrokes and intensity. Gauff managed to stay composed during Sabalenka’s relentless rallies, saving multiple break points and keeping the set close. In the tiebreak, Gauff’s consistency and focus allowed her to capitalize on Sabalenka’s errors, taking the set 7-6 after running away towards a tiebreak lead of 6-2 , only for Sabalenka to save 3 setpoints, but failing to do so on the American’s last one.
Set 2
Riding the momentum, Gauff maintained her pressure in the second set. Sabalenka, struggling with unforced errors, saw her aggressive style backfire as Gauff remained steady and strategically placed her shots. Gauff broke Sabalenka’s serve mid-set, then held her own serve comfortably to close out a 6-3 victory, earning her spot in the WTA Finals championship quite easily even. Nevertheless, this was one of the best matches of Coco Gauff this year against a formidable opponent.
Our prediction for the final: Coco Gauff to win the title.