US Open history might repeat itself, but the outcome could be very different this time. Sure, Aryna Sabalenka claimed her fourth Grand Slam title by defeating Amanda Anisimova 6‑3, 7‑6 (3), yet the rivalry is far from over. Now, it seems like it’s Anisimova’s moment to turn the tables, because the two will meet again, this time, on the grand stage of the 2025 WTA Finals in Riyadh. And this time, revenge might just be on the menu.

Well, yes, Sabalenka recently secured her semi-final spot after a strong 7‑5, 6‑2 victory over Coco Gauff in the group stage. With that win, the stage is set for another thrilling showdown against Anisimova. Before facing Anisimova, Sabalenka shared her thoughts: when asked about the American, she said, “She’s always making me work hard. I’ve always had great battles against her and enjoy playing against her. I’m super excited to face her in the semis, and I really hope it’s going to be a high-level match.” Sure, it will be, but who do you think can win? Given how she played against Gauff, many fans are already wondering if Sabalenka has the edge this time.

In the WTA final, Gauff did everything she could to stop her. The American came out swinging, breaking Aryna Sabalenka early and applying pressure with sharp forehands and fearless net play. She even managed a mini-break in the tiebreak, but Sabalenka refused to crumble, firing aces and backhands that silenced the crowd. She edged the first set 7-6 (5), proving once again why she’s world No. 1. The question is, could anyone else handle that level of composure under fire?

In the second set, Aryna Sabalenka shifted gears entirely. She broke Gauff twice, raced ahead 4-0, and sealed the win 6-2 to complete her hat-trick of group victories. In addition to ending Gauff’s run, the victory raised curiosity in the upcoming phase of her rivalry with Anisimova. It’s not about survival anymore. It has to do with legacy. And in Riyadh, Sabalenka’s legacy might finally come to life.

Aryna Sabalenka’s title chase faces the Anisimova test

For the fourth consecutive year, world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka has returned to the WTA Finals semifinals, and this time, she may be prepared to complete the task. The Belarusian appears hungrier than ever after losing to Caroline Garcia in the 2022 final and losing to eventual champions Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff in the semifinals of the previous two tournaments. She will enter the court with less pressure and a clear objective: to earn one of the few titles that are still missing from her amazing resume, now that she has the Year-End No. 1 ranking.

Across the net will stand World No. 4 Amanda Anisimova, the only debutant among the eight players in Riyadh. The 24-year-old American bounced back impressively after an opening loss to Elena Rybakina. The American rallied from 4-6, 1-3 down to beat Keys, then stunned Iga Swiatek to qualify. In contrast, Sabalenka’s path has been clearer; she has defeated Gauff, Pegula, and Paolini while dropping just one set.

With two titles and a 49-16 season record, Anisimova has repeatedly shown that she performs well under duress. Two of the best players in the world are facing off in this semifinal; they have faced each other in the last three Grand Slams, with Aryna Sabalenka winning at Roland Garros and the US Open and Anisimova winning at Wimbledon. Under the bright lights of Riyadh, anyone can win their match, which is currently 6-4 in Anisimova’s favor.