World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka showcased her championship grit at Wimbledon on Wednesday, overcoming Germany's Laura Siegemund 4-6, 6-2, 6-4 in a grueling 2-hour-54-minute quarterfinal clash – the third-longest match of this year's Championships.
Veteran Challenge Meets Top Seed Resilience
The 37-year-old Siegemund, attempting her first career win against a world No. 1, stunned spectators by claiming the opening set through relentless baseline consistency. The German veteran later broke Sabalenka early in the deciding set, threatening to become the oldest first-time Grand Slam semifinalist in Open Era history.
Champion's Response
Sabalenka, a finalist at both the Australian Open and Roland Garros this season, regrouped with characteristic power hitting to dominate the second set. "I was trying not to give her that energy of seeing me frustrated," the Belarusian revealed post-match, acknowledging Siegemund's tactical gameplay that forced extended rallies.
Historic Qualification Achieved
The victory propels Sabalenka into her 12th career Grand Slam semifinal and fourth consecutive this season. The 27-year-old also became the first player to secure qualification for the 2024 WTA Finals, bolstering her credentials with previous 2024 titles in Miami, Madrid, and Brisbane.
Sabalenka will face Amanda Anisimova in Thursday's semifinal, continuing her quest for a maiden Wimbledon title at the All England Club.
