Sabalenka Storms Past Noskova, Eyes Third Indian Wells Crown

Indian Wells: World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka produced a commanding performance to defeat 14th seed Linda Noskova 6-3, 6-4 and book her place in the final of Indian Wells Open for the third time in the last four years.

The victory marks Sabalenka’s 20th career win at the prestigious tournament. With the result, she also becomes the first player ranked No. 1 in the WTA standings to reach back-to-back finals at Indian Wells since the event began in 1989. Among active players, only Sabalenka and Victoria Azarenka have reached the final here on three separate occasions.

Sabalenka was largely in control throughout the semifinal against the 21-year-old Czech, who was appearing in her first Indian Wells semifinal. The Belarusian quickly seized momentum, breaking Noskova twice to surge to a 5-1 lead before comfortably sealing the opening set.

Noskova tried to mount a comeback late in the second set. Displaying strong serving, she fought off two break points to hold for 3-2 and keep the contest alive. She even created a break opportunity at 4-3 when Sabalenka served at 30-40. But the top seed responded with three thunderous serves in a row to move within a game of victory.

Sabalenka eventually wrapped up the match two games later, firing a crisp forehand winner into the open court to secure the win in one hour and 28 minutes.

“It feels great, but I lost my last couple of finals here,” Sabalenka told the crowd afterward. “I’ll make sure I’m fully ready on Sunday. I’ll bring my best tennis and try to make this the year.”

Sunday’s showdown will be the 43rd tour-level final of Sabalenka’s career. She has now reached three consecutive finals across the ‘Sunshine Double’ tournaments at Indian Wells and Miami Open, a feat previously achieved by legends Monica Seles and Steffi Graf.

With inputs from IANS