Imperious Aryna Sabalenka sets up Miami Open final against Coco Gauff

The world number one needed 80 minutes to defeat the Kazakh superstar 6-4, 6-3 on the hard courts of the Magic City. Sabalenka won 83 per cent of her first service points and created a heap of breakpoint chances on her way to her second consecutive Miami Open final.

The opening set saw the duo swap breaks mid-set, only for an under-pressure Rybakina to fail to hold serve in the final game.

Rybakina's level dipped, and ruthless Sabalenka pounced. In a flash, Sabalenka raced ahead 4-0 and while Rybakina rallied to break back once, it was too little too late as Sabalenka closed out the semifinal with a forehand winner.

"I really enjoy our rivalry," Sabalenka said of Rybakina in her on-court interview.

"She's an incredible player, always pushing me to the limit, and you know, with her, you always have to bring your best tennis.

"I think I did everything right, and she played great, but I think I pushed her so much and I'm proud of this win. It's always tough physically, mentally, and I'm happy to get another win against her."

Looking ahead to Saturday's final against a resurgent Gauff, Sabalenka is relishing the battle.

"A lot of rallies, a lot of emotions, a lot of aggression, a lot of fun," quipped the Belarusian, who is yet to drop a set at the tournament. 

"It's going to be a battle and I'm super excited to play her in another final." 

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