Jessica Pegula reaches third successive US Open semi-final, sets up Sabalenka rematch
NEW YORK: Jessica Pegula reached the US Open semifinals for a third successive year, coming from a set down to beat Emma Navarro 3-6 6-4 6-3 in an all-American clash on Tuesday. The 32-year-old will face two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka in a rematch of the 2024 final after securing her fifth straight win over her compatriot, including a victory at last month’s Cincinnati Open. The…
NEW YORK: Jessica Pegula secured her third consecutive US Open semifinal appearance, overcoming a two-set deficit to defeat Emma Navarro in a fierce all-American showdown. The 32-year-old, who triumphed five times in a row against her American compatriot, will now face two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka after claiming her fifth successive win over her nation.
The match, dubbed the "Battle of the Billionaires" due to their affluent backgrounds, started an hour late when Frances Tiafoe triumphed over Alex Michelsen in another all-American contest. The grueling battle was characterized by numerous errors and a lack of sustained momentum, with both players hitting five double faults and trading early breaks.
Pegula, the 26th seed, edged the opening set before Navarro took the lead. Pegula, however, found her stride in the second set, breaking through with a strong forehand winner to force a tiebreak. She capitalized on Sabalenka's error-filled play to claim victory, citing her ability to focus on the present moment as the key to her success.
This win marked Pegula's 50th of the season, making her the first woman on the tour to achieve this milestone in 2026.
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