MELBOURNE, Australia — Elena Rybakina fended off a late Australian Open surge from Jessica Pegula in a 6-3, 7-6(7) semifinal win Thursday night, to set up a heavyweight final against the world No. AdvertisementAdvertisement AdvertisementShe won the first six points of the match against Pegula, breaking early to go 3-0 up after 10 minutes. Rybakina drew even with the strength of her serve, but one tight forehand in the net and another long gave Pegula a break. Once there, Pegula had two set points to take the match the distance, but Rybakina staved them off on the back of her serve. So while this is the final Sabalenka probably wanted to avoid, it is also one that fans desperate for a sustained competitive encounter will be relishing.