Djokovic and Sabalenka Set for Final Showdowns in Athens and WTA Finals
Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka showcased their skills, setting the stage for exciting finals in both the ATP event in Athens and the WTA Finals. Djokovic made a commanding return to form, while Sabalenka battled through a tough match to secure her place against a fierce rival. Here’s a closer look at their journeys to the finals.
Djokovic Sets Up Athens Final Showdown with Musetti
Novak Djokovic advanced to the final of the ATP event in Athens with a decisive 6-3, 6-4 victory over Yannick Hanfmann on Friday. The 38-year-old Serbian will face Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti, who battled past Sebastian Korda in a thrilling encounter, winning 6-0, 5-7, 7-5.
Djokovic’s performance was solid, taking just 79 minutes to dispatch the German qualifier. This victory marked a significant moment for the Serb, who ended a four-match semifinal losing streak, a run that included exits at Roland Garros, Wimbledon, the US Open, and Shanghai. “I think it was the best tennis I’ve played this tournament,” Djokovic remarked, expressing confidence ahead of the final against a motivated Musetti, who needs a win to secure his place at the ATP Finals in Turin.
Having broken Hanfmann at critical moments, Djokovic showcased his ability to maintain focus under pressure. “Thank you for filling out this amazing stadium again,” he said to the supportive crowd, acknowledging the electric atmosphere at the event, which has replaced the short-lived Belgrade Open on the ATP calendar.
Sabalenka Outlasts Anisimova, Books WTA Finals Title Clash with Rybakina
In the WTA Finals, world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka triumphed over Amanda Anisimova in a hard-fought match, winning 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 to secure her place in the title showdown against Elena Rybakina. This final is particularly significant, as both players are unbeaten in the tournament and vying for their first Billie Jean King trophy.
Sabalenka’s victory came after a fierce battle that saw her regain momentum after Anisimova took control in the second set. “It’s going to be another powerful match,” Sabalenka stated, looking ahead to her ninth final of the season. She praised Anisimova’s performance, saying, “We played an incredible match, and both deserved this place in the final.”
Meanwhile, Rybakina advanced by coming from a set down to defeat Jessica Pegula 4-6, 6-4, 6-3. Rybakina, who has maintained a perfect record at the King Saud University Sports Arena, managed to turn the tide in her favor after a shaky start. “It was such a tough battle,” she said, crediting her serve for helping her through critical moments.
With Sabalenka and Rybakina both looking to claim their first title in this prestigious event, Saturday’s final promises to be a thrilling encounter as both players aim to finish the season on a high note.
