Elena Rybakina’s latest loss at the Wuhan Open may have forced Jessica Pegula to make some major changes to her schedule.
Aryna Sabalenka remained in control of the tournament, taking care of Rybakina in straight sets as she continued her strong play.
That result puts Rybakina’s spot at the WTA Finals in jeopardy, as she battles Jasmine Paolini for one of the final top-eight places.
Pegula, meanwhile, picked up another win in Wuhan and could see a big boost from Rybakina’s early exit.
Pegula’s WTA Finals qualification could lead to missed tournaments
With Rybakina’s defeat, Pegula has now officially booked her spot in the Saudi Arabia tournament. That could mean she chooses to skip the events between Wuhan and the WTA Finals.
The American reached the semi-finals in Wuhan after edging