Jessica
Pegula stunned by defeating Iga Swiatek 6-2, 6-4 to advance to the US Open
semifinals. The world No. 6 finally broke her quarterfinal barrier in a Grand
Slam after six previous failed attempts at this stage.
Pegula’s
victory guarantees a second American in the semifinals of the women’s draw,
joining Emma Navarro. On the men's side, with Tiafoe and Fritz still in
competition, there are four local players remaining.
First Set
It was a strange start for Swiatek, as she lost the first game with a double
fault, ending her streak of 26 consecutive service games in the tournament
without losing serve. Pegula began to control the match, taking the second
break and moving ahead 4-0, showing great confidence.
The world
No. 1 was not having her best day, but managed to defend a couple of her
service games. However, the American player kept the pressure on, holding her
serve without much trouble and taking the set 6-2.
There were
only 3 winners on each side, showing that the set was marked by errors,
especially from the Pole, who had 19 unforced errors compared to Pegula’s 12.
Swiatek had only 36% of first serves in, while Pegula had 61%, constantly
playing down the lines and surprising Swiatek.
Jessica Pegula at 2024 US Open.
Second Set
After surprisingly losing the first set, the 5-time Grand Slam champion quickly
went to the locker room, while Pegula stayed talking with her coach, Mark
Knowles. This was the first time Swiatek had lost the first set in a Grand Slam
draw since Wimbledon 2023, ending a streak of 21 consecutive matches at majors
where she had won the opening set.
Swiatek
entered the second set with renewed determination, quickly going up 40-0 and,
for the first time in the match, seemed capable of controlling some points.
However, it was only for a handful of points, as Pegula quickly found her
rhythm again.
The first
break went to the American, but Swiatek immediately broke back in the next
game. They stayed level until 3-3, but Pegula continued to appear superior and
more confident than her rival. The 7th game was fiercely contested, with
Pegula’s confidence sky-high while Swiatek seemed a little lost on the court,
even looking slow during rallies. Pegula capitalized on this to hit some
winners, moving Swiatek around and securing the fourth break in her favor.
In the
closing stages, Swiatek tried to recover, but she was far from her usual level
and lacked confidence in her shots. On the other hand, Pegula played one of the
best matches of her career, sealing the victory with her serve for a commanding
6-2, 6-4 win, finally reaching the US Open semifinals, where she will face
Karolina Muchova.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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