ATX Open Austin Final: Jessica Pegula claims first title of 2025 by defeating McCartney Kessler in straight sets

WTA
Monday, 03 March 2025 at 10:44
jessicapegulaimago1049592309

Jessica Pegula clinched her first title of the season after defeating McCartney Kessler 7-5, 6-2 in the final of the ATX Open Austin. This marks the 7th career title for the World No. 4 and her first since winning the Canadian Open in August 2024.

It wasn’t an easy win for the 31-year-old, who faced a determined Kessler, who put the 2024 US Open finalist under pressure. However, it wasn't enough to overcome Pegula’s experience, and the American heads to Indian Wells next week full of confidence.

First Set

The first set was tightly contested as both players tried to find their rhythm on court. Pegula struck first with an early break that gave her a 2-0 lead. However, Kessler responded quickly, winning two consecutive breaks and taking the lead with four games in a row, surprising the tournament's top seed.

Neither American was able to comfortably hold their service games, and both players found themselves in constant break-point situations. Pegula broke back, and the set remained even until 5-5. In the crucial moments, the World No. 4 played the key points better, saving a break point and then converting her third set point with Kessler serving to win the first set 7-5 after 51 minutes.

Second Set

The second set began with a break for Kessler, who seemed determined to fight her way back into the match. Unfortunately for the 25-year-old, she was defeated on her serve, and Pegula won four consecutive games, taking a nearly insurmountable 4-1 lead.

Kessler managed to hold her serve once, but it wasn't enough against an inspired Pegula. Without hesitation on her serve, Pegula sealed the victory 7-5, 6-2 and claimed the title in Austin. The world No. 4 will face her next challenge at Indian Wells, where she will be the 4th seed, arriving on a 5-match winning streak.

Match Statistics Pegula vs. Kessler

Pegula VS Kessler
Service
0 Aces 0
2 Double Faults 5
59% (39/66) 1st Service Percentage 71% (41/58)
64% (25/39) 1st Service Points Won 56% (23/41)
46% (12/26) 2nd Service Points Won 35% (6/17)
57% (4/7) Break Points Saved 44% (4/9)
70% (7/10) Service Games 44% (4/9)
Return
44% (18/41) 1st Return Points Won 36% (14/39)
65% (11/17) 2nd Return Points Won 54% (14/26)
- Break Points Saved -
Other
1h 19m Match Duration 1h 19m
claps 0visitors 0

Just In

Popular News

Latest Comments