American tennis star Jessica Pegula showcased her top form at the US Open, cruising past compatriot Ann Li 6-1, 6-2 in just 54 minutes on Arthur Ashe Stadium.
The world No. 4 described the performance as one of her best matches in months.
“From start to finish, it felt really good. Probably the best match I’ve played since before Wimbledon,” Pegula said.
“I executed my strategy well, hit the ball cleanly, and got through it quickly. It was encouraging.”
A Rocky Start to the Tournament
Despite her dominant display, Pegula admitted she entered the tournament far from her peak.
“I felt terrible coming into this event,” she confessed. “I practiced with Aryna Sabalenka on Wednesday, and she absolutely killed me.
I was playing poorly and got frustrated halfway through.
The cold and wind didn’t help either. I just walked off the court, not very happy.”
It seems that a change of pace helped Pegula reset her mindset.
“I went and did an escape room with friends, had a couple of drinks, and told myself to just chill and stop overthinking practice sessions,” she added.
Health: The Key to Consistency
Pegula highlighted staying healthy as a cornerstone of her consistency on the tour.
“That’s why I’ve been able to maintain a high level over the last three to four years,” she explained.
“Being relatively healthy has allowed me to play a lot of tennis, gain confidence, and stay consistent. Earlier in my career, that wasn’t always possible.”
Her hip surgery served as a turning point in her approach to fitness and self-care.
“Rehab was tough, and I realized I had to do everything to stay healthy if I wanted to compete at my best.
Otherwise, I’d never give myself a real chance on court,” Pegula said.
Reworking Fitness and Nutrition
The US Open form Pegula displayed is the result of a more disciplined approach to her fitness and nutrition.
“I reworked my fitness and nutrition—not that I was doing anything wrong before—but I didn’t understand everything I needed to do to reach my potential.
Staying healthy is essential if you want to play your best tennis,” she explained.
A Strong Showing Despite Semi-Final Exit
Pegula’s run ended in a tough semi-final, where she fell in three sets to eventual champion Aryna Sabalenka.
Nevertheless, her resurgence and commanding wins earlier in the tournament showcased her skill, preparation, and mental strength.
Looking Ahead
For Pegula, the US Open highlighted the importance of balance, preparation, and health in sustaining elite performance.
Her journey serves as a reminder of how top athletes blend discipline, mental reset strategies, and physical fitness to compete at the highest level.