Aryna Sabalenka beats Elena Rybakina to set up Miami final against Coco Gauff
World number one Aryna Sabalenka will face Coco Gauff in the Miami Open final as she stands on the brink of completing a historic Sunshine Double.
The Belarusian advanced to the showpiece event in Florida by dismantling second seed Elena Rybakina 6-4 6-3 on Thursday.
It took the top seed just 79 minutes to secure her second consecutive victory over the Kazakhstani player.
Renewing a fierce rivalry
Sabalenka will now meet American star Gauff in a highly anticipated rematch of last season’s Roland Garros final.
Gauff claimed her second Grand Slam title in that Paris encounter, prompting her opponent to criticise the teenager’s defensive style of play.
However, the reigning Australian Open champion levelled their head-to-head record at six wins apiece during the WTA Finals late last year.
Gauff earned her spot in her first Miami final by thrashing the in-form Karolina Muchova 6-1 6-1.
Preparing for an emotional battle
The world number one knows she faces a stern test against an opponent renowned for her exceptional court coverage and retrieving ability.
“A lot of rallies, a lot of emotions, a lot of aggression, a lot of fun,” said the powerful ball-striker when asked about the impending clash.
“It’s going to be a battle and I’m super excited to play her in another final.”
The 25-year-old boasts an exceptional 22-1 win-loss record this season and has reached four consecutive finals.
Chasing the Sunshine Double
A victory on Saturday would cement her place in tennis history alongside some of the sport’s greatest names.
She is aiming to become only the fifth woman to win Indian Wells and the Miami Open back-to-back.
Iga Swiatek was the last player to achieve the rare feat during the 2022 season.
The exclusive club also includes tennis legends Steffi Graf, Kim Clijsters and Victoria Azarenka.
