Sabalenka's Flawless March to the Final

Aryna Sabalenka delivered another masterclass performance at the 2025 Miami Open, defeating sixth seed Jasmine Paolini 6-2, 6-2 in just 73 minutes. The Belarusian powerhouse showcased her trademark aggressive baseline game, winning 82% of first-serve points and firing 28 winners past the Italian.

Key Stats:

• 4th final of 2025 (Brisbane champion, Australian Open/Indian Wells runner-up)
• 0 sets dropped in Miami
• 12-1 record vs. Top 20 players this season

"I'm playing with more variety now," Sabalenka noted post-match. "When your plan A isn't working, you need options B and C ready."

Pegula Survives Eala's Historic Challenge

Jessica Pegula ended 19-year-old Alexandra Eala's Cinderella run in a 7-6(3), 5-7, 6-3 semifinal marathon. The world No.140 became:

• Youngest Miami Open semifinalist since 2004
• First Filipina to reach WTA 1000 semifinal
• Defeated 3 Grand Slam champions (Ostapenko, Keys, Swiatek) en route

"She made me earn every point," said Pegula after the 2h24m battle. "That backhand down the line? Insane for any age."

Championship Preview: Contrasting Styles Collide

Historical Context:

• Winner becomes first new Miami Open champion since 2018
• Sabalenka seeks 14th career title, Pegula aims for 5th
• Finals forecast: 28°C with 65% humidity (potential factor in longer rallies)

The Future is Bright

Despite the loss, Eala will:

• Debut in WTA Top 100 next week
• Receive wildcard into Madrid Open
• Become Philippines' first seeded player at Grand Slams

"This changes everything," beamed Eala. "Now I know I belong here."

For live updates, follow #MiamiOpenFinals across social platforms. The championship match airs Saturday at 1:30 PM EST on Tennis Channel.