Pegula to face Eala in Washington Open final after semifinal wins

Top-seeded Jessica Pegula advanced to the Washington Open final after defeating Russia's Diana Shnaider 7-5, 6-4 on Saturday. The American world number three is seeking her third title of the year and the 12th of her career.

Pegula will face Alexandra Eala of the Philippines in the championship match. Eala secured her spot in the final by defeating four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka 6-4, 6-2 in a commanding performance. Eala, ranked 21, is aiming for her first WTA title.

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I just capitalised on a couple of areas. I think I started just trying to find the rhythm on the return. I didn't think I was that far off ... So, just trying to pick up my energy and again, try and be a little bit more aggressive.

In her semifinal match, Pegula overcame an early deficit against Shnaider. The 22-year-old Shnaider led 5-2 in the first set, but Pegula rallied to win the set and then took control of the second set, breaking Shnaider's serve twice to secure the victory in 87 minutes.

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I think I played really well and, of course, it's such a meaningful match against a great player. So really happy to share the court with Naomi.

Eala, 21, delivered a composed performance against Osaka. After leveling the first set at 4-4, Eala broke Osaka's serve and held her own to take the opener. She carried that momentum into the second set, securing an early break and ultimately sealing the win without dropping a set throughout her run to the final.

"I'm in the final for a reason. I just have to trust myself," Eala said about facing Pegula. "She is such an amazing player. I think it's going to be a really good match."

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I'm in the final for a reason. I just have to trust myself. She (Pegula) is such an amazing player. I think it's going to be a really good match.