World number three Iga Swiatek powered to a 7-5 6-3 win over Elena Rybakina to reach the final of the Cincinnati Open for the first time.
The 2022 All England winner Rybakina – who had swept past world number one and defending champion Aryna Sabalenka in the quarter-finals – started brightly.
However, reigning Wimbledon champion Swiatek was always in control after recovering an early break in the opening set.
“That was a tough match,” said the Polish third seed. “At the beginning it was pretty crazy, we played so fast that sometimes we couldn’t even run to the second ball.
“I was there to play with intensity and good quality and I am super happy with the performance.
“It will be super tough in the final. I will have to prepare tactically but I will focus on myself and try to continue the work I have been doing.”
Swiatek, 24, will face either Italy’s Jasmine Paolini or Russian Veronika Kudermetova in Monday’s final.
