5 september 2024 : Aryna Sabalenka advanced to her fourth straight US Open semi-final, decisively beating Zheng Qinwen 6-1, 6-2 in just over an hour. Sabalenka will face American Emma Navarro next, and humorously promised fans free drinks for their support.
Sabalenka, the second seed, has only lost four service games throughout the tournament, solidifying her status as a top contender. Despite being seen as a favorite, she emphasizes the importance of fighting through tough moments in matches to claim victory.
In the men’s draw, Taylor Fritz and Frances Tiafoe set up an exciting all-American semi-final. Fritz defeated Alexander Zverev 7-6(2), 3-6, 6-4, 7-6(3), ending Zverev’s bid for a major title. Fritz, the 12th seed, expressed a strong belief in his ability to advance further.
Tiafoe reached the semi-finals after Grigor Dimitrov retired due to injury, with the score at 6-3, 6-7(5), 6-3, 4-1. This marks Tiafoe’s second semi-final appearance and continues his impressive run from 2022.
Both Tiafoe and Fritz are aiming to end a 21-year drought for American men’s champions at Grand Slam events since Andy Roddick’s win in 2003. The semi-final will be the first all-American men’s major semi-final since Andre Agassi’s victory over Robby Ginepri in 2005.
In women’s singles, 13th seed Emma Navarro defeated Paula Badosa 6-2, 7-5, continuing her impressive rise. Navarro, one of two American women remaining in the tournament, secured an early lead and managed to fend off Badosa’s comeback attempts.
