Title decider for the WTA Finals 2023 rescheduled as weather conditions suspend Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka’s semis

This marks the second time the Australian Open winner's match has been rescheduled at the event.

Title decider for the WTA Finals 2023 rescheduled as weather conditions suspend Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka’s semis

Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek (Image via: Open Source/X)

In a highly anticipated match, World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka was all set to square off against World No.2 Iga Swiatek in the semi-final round at the ongoing WTA Finals in Cancun. However, the match had to be suspended as soon as it began, thanks to the poor weather conditions.

Following the semi-final round match between Jessica Pegula and Coco Gauff, Sabalenka and French Open winner, Iga Swiatek, were eager to face each other across the net as the Pole looks forward to reclaiming her No.1 ranking. The duo’s match was however suspended, much to the disappointment of tennis fans.

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The top two players were engaged in a heated exchange across the net in the first set. The match started well on time. However, after only three games, with the Belarusian serving down 2-1, 30-30 on serve, a suspension of the match was announced. With Swiatek in the lead, the duo’s match will resume on Sunday.

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The irregular weather patterns in Cancun have also resulted in the rescheduling of the doubles semifinals. With World No.5 Jessica Pegula securing a win over Coco Gauff, following the much-awaited semi-final round clash between the top two seeds, the final round will now be played on Monday at 4:30 p.m.

WTA Finals 2023 in Cancun ‘plagued’ by numerous problems

The suspended semi-final match between Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka marks the second suspension at the ongoing tournament. Earlier, the last match of the robin round between the Belarusian No.1 and Elena Rybakina was postponed. The players were forced to wrap themselves in towels and rush off the court as the heavens opened up.

The WTA organizers have been blamed for poor management and organization for allowing the match to go ahead in the first place. The forecast had predicted rain, and the organizers should have been prepared to postpone the match if necessary.

WTA Finals logo, stadium under construction in Cancun
(R) Stadium under construction in Cancun (Image via: Open Source/X)

The WTA has been met with heavy criticism this year over their preparations for the WTA Finals. The courts at the venue in Cancun were not ready when the players arrived, leading to the girls not being able to practice on the court where they would play. Some of them also came out to confess that the courts feel “unsafe” and are not ready for the matches to be played.

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