Contrasting journeys lead to US Open showdown at Arthur Ashe

Al Cameron September 7, 2024

The story of the two finalists in this year’s Women’s US Open couldn’t present more contrasting journeys leading them to the final of this, the last Grand Slam of 2024. Aryna Sabalenka, currently World Number 2 and last year’s runner-up to Coco Gauff, has already tasted victory at the Australian Open this year and has reached four Grand Slam finals in her career. She aims to become the first woman to win both hard-court Grand Slam titles in the same year since Angelique Kerber in 2016. In contrast, Jessica Pegula, the 30-year-old New York native, is competing in her first-ever Grand Slam final, and she’ll be doing so in front of a hometown crowd. Pegula will be hoping that home advantage and the support of the 23,000-strong audience will give her the edge over her more accomplished opponent.

Odds for US Open women’s final

Sabalenka is favoured as the -330 moneyline favourite, reflecting her experience and strong performance leading up to the final, including being a two-time Australian Open champion. Pegula, as the underdog at +250, is seeking her first Grand Slam title, making this match a highly anticipated showdown

Sabalenka’s route to the final at Flushing Meadows includes a convincing 6-1, 6-2 win over number 7 seed Qinwen Zheng in the quarterfinals, followed by a dominant 6-3, 7-6 (7-2) victory over another American hopeful, Emma Navarro, in the semi-finals. Her power was on full display as she hit an impressive 34 winners compared to Navarro’s 13. The Belarusian has yet to drop a set in this year’s competition, showcasing her hard-court prowess against less experienced opponents. After her semi-final win, Sabalenka expressed her determination, stating, “I’m still hoping to hold that beautiful trophy.” On the other hand, Pegula has yet to secure a major title, having reached the quarterfinals in each of the four Grand Slams without advancing further. However, she has found success on the doubles circuit, holding seven career titles and partnering with fellow American Coco Gauff to achieve World Number 1 status in September 2023. Pegula struggled with neck and back injuries, which disrupted her clay-court season and contributed to early exits at the Australian Open and Wimbledon, while she missed Roland Garros altogether due to injury. She will be looking to end the Grand Slam season on a high note in front of a sold-out, partisan crowd. Her path to this year’s final includes a stunning straight-sets 6-2, 6-4 victory over current World Number 1 Iga Świątek in the quarterfinals and a comeback from a set, break, and breakpoint down in the first set to defeat Karolína Muchová 1-6, 6-4, 6-2 in the semi-finals. While Sabalenka is the clear favourite, fans at Arthur Ashe Stadium will undoubtedly rally behind Pegula as their American underdog.

Sabalenka vs. Pegula in 2024 US Open final – Get to know the finalists

Aryna Sabalenka, the powerhouse of Belarusian tennis, has made waves as a US Open finalist. Born in 1998, she grew up in a family deeply rooted in sports—her father was a hockey player, and her mother played volleyball. Aryna picked up a racket at just six, showing early promise on the court. Her relentless drive and fierce competitiveness propelled her through the junior ranks, eventually turning pro in 2012. Known for her explosive playstyle and mental toughness, she’s battled her way to the top, securing her spot among the WTA elite. Sabalenka’s journey shows her determination to succeed through hard work, resilience, and the spirit of chasing dreams.

Jessica Pegula has a unique story rooted in diverse heritage. Born to former NFL player Terry Pegula and Kim Pegula in 1994, she embraces both American and Korean roots. Growing up in a sports-centric family, Pegula’s journey in tennis has been marked by resilience and dedication. Despite battling injuries, she broke through at this year’s US Open, stunning fans with a victory over World Number 1 Iga Świątek. Pegula’s journey isn’t just about her matches; it’s a testament to perseverance and passion. As she steps onto the Arthur Ashe Stadium court, she embodies the spirit of an underdog, ready to make history in front of her hometown crowd.

US Open 2024 latest — Women’s final

The women’s US Open final headlines in New York, Jessica Pegula faces Aryna Sabalenka on Arthur Ashe, action begins at at 4 pm EDT, 9 pm BST
TV info: ESPN (US), Sky Sports (UK), TSN (Canada), Nine (Australia)