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World number one Aryna Sabalenka moved a step closer to a maiden French Open title by taking out four-time champion Iga Swiatek in a blockbuster semi-final.<\/b><\/p>\n
Belarus’ Sabalenka earned a 7-6 (7-1) 4-6 6-0 victory to end fifth seed Swiatek’s 26-match winning run at the tournament.<\/p>\n
After a slow start on the Roland Garros clay, Poland’s Swiatek fought back to level but Sabalenka dominated a 24-minute deciding set.<\/p>\n
Sabalenka, whose three Grand Slam titles have all come on hard courts, has never reached the Paris final before.<\/p>\n
“It feels incredible but the job is not done yet. I’m thrilled with my performance,” the 27-year-old said.<\/p>\n
“Iga is the toughest opponent, especially at Roland Garros, I’m proud I managed to get this win.”<\/p>\n
Top seed Sabalenka will face either American second seed Coco Gauff or French wildcard Lois Boisson in Saturday’s final.<\/p>\n
Gauff, a finalist in 2022, is the heavy favourite against Boisson, who began the event ranked 361st in the world and is appearing in her first Grand Slam main draw.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n