"What's the problem? Tell me the problem!": Jessica Pegula and Emma Navarro defended by Jimmy Connors on family wealth criticism
WTA
Jessica Pegula and Emma Navarro stood out during the US Open for a multitude of reasons. The former lost to Aryna Sabalenka in the final, while the latter made her Grand Slam breakout making the semi-final. But amid that came a cloud of discontent surrounding their families which Jimmy Connors took aim at.
In particular with their fathers being known as successful wealthy businessman in Terry Pegula who owns the Buffalo Bills, a prominent NFL franchise. He made his money through the oil industry with Pegula in reality having quite humble beginnings.
While Navarro since coming along has been subject to the same criticism. Her father Ben Navarro runs CreditOne, a well known bank and also owns the Charleston Open tennis tournament.
The legendary former tennis player spoke on his podcast Advantage Connors and said they have grinded the same as others to get in their spots and he asked what is the problem with their families having wealth.
“It almost makes you feel sick when you hear somebody try and take something away from these kids [Pegula and Navarro],” Connors said on ‘Advantage Connors‘ “[They] are out there grinding, playing these matches, training in the hot sun, sacrificing.
“With all due respect, these kids are trying to make their own way, so why not? What’s the problem? Tell me the problem!”
Both players have been quick to share that they have not received help in their tennis pursuits due to their family backing. Others have said while it can help it doesn't hand them the results with Genie Bouchard in particular coming under criticism initially. Albeit for a comment taking out of turn where she sarcastically responded that money can't buy a US Open final.
Navarro in particular in the past 12 months has played many smaller level tournaments and has grinded in ITF and WTA 125ks to reach the top 10 in the WTA Rankings. But amid articles from publications calling them the world's richest tennis players and their humbleness being questioned, Connors for one doesn't get why this is even a debate.
Samuel GillEditor-in-Chief
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of TennisUpToDate.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces across the TennisUpToDate network, playing a central role in the daily operation and development of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has a broad background in tennis media. In his current role, he works closely with editors and writers to ensure coverage meets clear journalistic standards, with particular attention to verification, consistency, and timely updates when new information becomes available.
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