This Week in Tennis: Big Wins and Bold Comebacks

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Sabalenka Stops Gauff’s Run and Reaches the WTA Finals Semis

World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka continues to prove why she sits atop women’s tennis, earning her third straight group-stage win at the WTA Finals by defeating Coco Gauff 7-6 (5), 6-2. The victory not only ended Gauff’s title defense but also secured Sabalenka’s spot in the semifinals alongside fellow qualifier Jessica Pegula, who earlier overcame Jasmine Paolini in straight sets.

Gauff had her chances early, leading twice in the opening set and even serving for it at 5-4. But Sabalenka’s relentless aggression turned the tide as she broke back and dominated from there. The Belarusian’s next challenge will be a rematch against Amanda Anisimova, revisiting the thrilling 2025 U.S. Open final. Pegula, meanwhile, faces Elena Rybakina in the other semifinal.

“It clicked when I broke her serve—I knew I still had it,” Sabalenka said afterward, reflecting on her confidence-building turnaround.

Norrie Battles Through to Metz Final

British No.2 Cameron Norrie showed grit and determination once again as he reached his first final of 2025 at the Moselle Open in Metz. The 30-year-old overcame Italy’s Lorenzo Sonego 4-6, 6-2, 6-4 after two hours of intense play, marking yet another comeback win in a week full of three-set battles.

Norrie’s improved consistency has been a defining theme of his late-season resurgence. Ranked as low as 91st in May, he’s now back inside the top 30 thanks to strong Grand Slam performances—reaching the fourth round of the French Open, quarter-finals at Wimbledon, and the third round at the U.S. Open.

Awaiting him in the Metz final is either Vitaliy Sachko of Ukraine or Learner Tien from the United States, as Norrie aims to finish his season on a high note.

Djokovic in Prime Form Before Turin Finals

Novak Djokovic once again reminded the tennis world of his enduring brilliance by defeating Yannick Hanfmann 6-3, 6-4 to reach the Athens final. The 38-year-old Serb described it as his “best tennis” of the tournament, using the event as ideal preparation for next week’s Nitto ATP Finals in Turin.

Playing in front of an enthusiastic Greek crowd, Djokovic praised the atmosphere, calling the Centre Court in Athens “one of the most beautiful arenas” he has ever played in. His pursuit of a 101st career title remains alive, and he’ll next face either Lorenzo Musetti or Sebastian Korda.

Musetti, for his part, must win the title in Athens to qualify for the ATP Finals. Otherwise, Felix Auger-Aliassime will secure the last available spot in Turin.

Sinner and Alcaraz: Rivals Turn Training Partners

In a refreshing twist to one of tennis’s modern rivalries, Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz have decided to practice together before the ATP Finals. The two young stars, who’ve traded the No.1 ranking throughout the year, are showing mutual respect as they prepare for the season’s grand finale in Italy.

Sinner recently reclaimed the top spot after capturing the Paris Masters title but could temporarily lose it again when last year’s ATP Finals points are deducted. Still, the Italian has a chance to win back the position if he triumphs once more on home soil.

Their joint practice session has sparked excitement among fans, signaling a new chapter of sportsmanship between two of the game’s brightest talents.

Jack Draper Eyes Comeback After Injury Setback

British rising star Jack Draper is on track for a December return following a frustrating injury spell that kept him sidelined since the U.S. Open. His withdrawal cost him a shot at the lucrative ATP Finals in Saudi Arabia, where the champion will earn up to £3.8 million.

Now fully recovered, Draper will make his comeback at the UTS London Grand Final (Dec 5–7) at the Copper Box Arena. He’s drawn into Group B alongside David Goffin, Casper Ruud, and Francisco Cerundolo, while Alex de Minaur, Andrey Rublev, Tomas Machac, and Adrian Mannarino comprise Group A.

“I’m building back to 100 percent,” Draper shared, eager to close out the year strong and restart his ascent up the rankings.

Conclusion: Momentum Builds Ahead of the ATP Finals

As the tennis world gears up for the season-ending ATP and WTA Finals, momentum and resilience define the landscape. From Sabalenka’s dominance and Gauff’s fighting spirit to Djokovic’s timeless excellence and Sinner’s rivalry with Alcaraz, the sport continues to deliver both drama and inspiration.

For players like Norrie and Draper, 2025 has been a lesson in perseverance—proof that the journey back to form is as meaningful as the trophies themselves. As the curtain falls on another thrilling season, tennis fans can look forward to battles that will shape the next generation of champions.

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