CANCUN - Jessica Pegula upset Aryna Sabalenka in straight sets at the WTA Finals in Cancun on Tuesday, punishing an error-strewn performance by the world number one to reach the semifinals of the season-ending tournament for the first time.
World number five Pegula, who had beaten Sabalenka only once before in five previous meetings, dominated her out-of-sorts Belarusian opponent from the outset to claim a 6-4, 6-3 victory.
Pegula was assured of reaching the last four as the winner of Bacalar Group later Tuesday after fourth seed Elena Rybakina defeated Greece's Maria Sakkari 6-0, 6-7 (4/7), 7-6 (7/2) in the day's other game.
"I feel more comfortable playing (top players) this year, I feel more confident," Pegula said after her win.
"I don't think it feels like such a big deal. Last year when I made top five, I think I psyched myself out a little bit. You have a couple thoughts in your head -- do I really belong at that level?"