Rybakina exploited a collapse in Gauff's forehand to orchestrate a three-set comeback victory. The 2026 tournament marked the first time since 1975 that the top four seeds all reached a Grand Slam semifinal.
After committing 40 unforced errors in the first two sets, Gauff pivoted her game to dominate the decider and set up a clash with new world No. 1 Elena Rybakina.
Gauff maintains her bid for a second New York title as high-seeded compatriots Madison Keys and Taylor Fritz exit after blowing commanding leads.
Overcoming a troublesome rival in straight sets, American star Coco Gauff advanced to the third round at Flushing Meadows while other contenders struggled.
Coco Gauff defeated fellow American Jessica Pegula 6-2, 6-4 in an hour and 14 minutes to capture her second Cincinnati Open title.
Jessica Pegula outlasted Iga Świątek in a three-hour battle and Coco Gauff dismissed Sara Bejlek to set up the first all-American Cincinnati women's final since 1970.