Sabalenka crashes out of season-ending WTA Finals after losing to Svitolina

World number two Sabalenka's campaign at the WTA Finals came to a disappointing end after she failed to reach the semifinals of the season-ending championships. Svitolina overwhelmed the Belarusian in the deciding set, breaking her six times before sealing her first victory over Sabalenka in more than six years with a forehand winner on her fourth match point.

Career Milestone

With the win, Svitolina improved to 2-6 against Sabalenka in their career meetings. The Ukrainian, the 2018 WTA Finals champion, will face Noskova on Saturday for a place in the final.

Political Statement

The Ukrainian again did not shake hands with Sabalenka after the match, maintaining her policy of not doing so with Russian and Belarusian players following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Sabalenka declined to speak to the media following Friday's loss.

Season Review

The defeat ended Sabalenka's season on a disappointing note. The second seed won Brisbane International in January and then Indian Wells and the Miami Open in March to complete the 'Sunshine Double' but did not claim another title after that. She also surrendered the world number one ranking to Elena Rybakina at the US Open.