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World number two Aryna Sabalenka defeated Coco Gauff 7-6 (7/2), 6-4 in the Australian Open semifinal, avenging her loss to the American teenager in last year's US Open final. With this victory, Sabalenka becomes the first player since Serena Williams in 2016 and 2017 to reach consecutive Australian Open finals.
Despite a resilient effort from Gauff, Sabalenka's strategic play and mental focus prevailed, earning her a chance to defend her title in the final. The Belarusian athlete acknowledged the challenge posed by Gauff, expressing her hope for more future encounters on the grand stage.
Sabalenka will face either Zheng Qinwen or Dayana Yastremska in the highly anticipated final on Saturday.