Abhay Singh
Despite experiencing a slow start, Jessica Pegula displayed remarkable resilience at the U.S. Open, turning the tables after being a set and a break down to secure a thrilling victory over Karolina Muchova with a scoreline of 1-6, 6-4, 6-2, clenching her spot in her inaugural Grand Slam final.
The sixth-seeded Pegula, a proud representative from New York aged 30, has showcased exceptional form by winning an impressive 15 of her last 16 matches, building considerable momentum heading into the final showdown against the second-seeded Aryna Sabalenka scheduled for Saturday.
Things did not look promising for Pegula early
Sabalenka, who finished second to Coco Gauff at Flushing Meadows the previous year, made a triumphant return to the championship match after fending off a late surge from U.S. No. 13 Emma Navarro, 6-3, 7-6 (2).
Things did not look promising for Pegula early in the match against Muchova. Despite being the 2023 French Open runner-up, Muchova was unseeded due to a lengthy absence after wrist surgery.
She showcased her exceptional versatility and creativity, using a variety of skills that posed a challenge for Pegula on any surface. Muchova’s effective use of slices, delicate net play, and strategic serve-and-volley techniques allowed her to dominate the game.
A remarkable ten of the match’s first 12 winners were delivered by her racket. The intensity of the first set was evident as Muchova clinched 30 out of the 44 points played, ultimately lasting 28 minutes.
Eight of the first nine games were won by Muchova, who came within one point of taking a 3-0 lead in the second set. However, she failed to convert a break opportunity there, misfiring on a forehand volley, and the game was over.
Pegula had been 0-6 in major quarterfinals before that breakthrough
The 52nd-ranked Muchova experienced a swift shift in performance, transitioning from a player who couldn’t miss a shot to one who struggled to make any. On the other side of the court, Pegula unleashed her signature confident style of tennis, a display reminiscent of her victory over No. 1 Iga Swiatek earlier in the tournament.
Despite her previous 0-6 record in major quarterfinals, Pegula’s breakthrough showcased her growing prowess in crucial moments.
Although it took her some time to find her rhythm on Thursday, once Pegula hit her stride, her dominance was undeniable.
She swiftly secured nine out of 11 games, enabling her to not only turn the tide in the second set but also surge ahead to a commanding 3-0 lead in the decisive third set.
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