Aryna Sabalenka’s dominance at the WTA Finals continued on Monday night as she secured her second victory in the purple round-robin group, defeating Jasmine Paolini 6-3, 7-5. This triumph guarantees Sabalenka’s place at the top of the group, making her the first player to qualify for the semifinals in Riyadh this year.
Sabalenka’s impressive performance follows her 6-3, 6-4 victory over Zheng Qinwen in her opening match. With Zheng also defeating Elena Rybakina earlier in the day, Sabalenka’s position at the summit of the group is assured. Paolini and Zheng will face off on Wednesday to determine the second qualifier, while Rybakina’s hopes of advancing have been extinguished.
Beyond her group success, Sabalenka’s victory has significant implications for the WTA’s year-end No. 1 ranking. If she manages to win just one more match this week, or if Iga Swiatek suffers a defeat, Sabalenka will secure the top spot.
Swiatek’s only path to usurping Sabalenka now lies in winning the title undefeated while Sabalenka fails to win any further matches. Swiatek’s next challenge comes on Wednesday against Coco Gauff, while Sabalenka will face Rybakina on Thursday.
Sabalenka’s consistent performances and impressive results have solidified her status as a formidable force in women’s tennis. Her determination to secure the year-end No. 1 ranking is a testament to her unwavering ambition and relentless pursuit of excellence.
