Aryna Sabalenka and Coco Gauff will contest the Miami Open final after both players made light work of tricky semi-finals.
Defending champion and world number one Sabalenka defeated Elena Rybakina 6-4 6-3 and is looking to become just the fifth woman to complete the ‘Sunshine Double’ following her Indian Wells triumph.
Gauff, meanwhile, produced a dominant display to dismantle Karolína Muchová 6-1 6-1.
Saturday’s final marks the 13th meeting between Sabalenka and Gauff, with the head-to-head evenly poised at six wins apiece.
Gauff enjoying home comforts
“I was able to find that good balance of mixing it up,” Gauff told Sky Sports post-match.
“When I stepped on court, I felt like it was going to be a really strong match.
“I was just trying to fight for every point and we ended up with the scoreline. It was not as straightforward as the scoreline suggests.”
She added: “It feels great to be at home.
“I am alternating between my parents’ house and my own, depending on how late we finish. They live a bit closer, so it is nice to have that family support.”
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Sabalenka excited for showdown
“I really enjoy our rivalry, she’s an incredible player,” Sabalenka admitted to reporters after toppling the dangerous Rybakina.
“I did everything right, she played great, but I pushed her so much.”
The victory fuels a growing rivalry, with Rybakina having beaten the Belarusian in the Australian Open final in January before the latter gained revenge in the recent Indian Wells final.
Looking ahead to the showpiece, Sabalenka expressed excitement, saying: “A lot of rallies, a lot of emotions, a lot of aggression, a lot of fun.
“It’s going to be a battle and I’m super excited to play her in another final.”
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