Congratulations Jessica Pegula on your WTA 1000 breakthrough in Montreal. Well-deserved. Well-earned. I’ve been saying for a few months now that this was possible for Jessie. She just had to believe it. The Samsonova match was dominating with obvious circumstances around Samsonova having to play two matches that day. The critical part was Jessie’s fantastic win over Swiatek in the semis. Let’s highlight the key points in Jessica Pegula’s breakthrough:
Dug Deep
Every champion has to overcome adversity. Losing the second set after serving for the match is discouraging. Going down a break right away in the third set is disheartening. Digging deep and fighting back from not just that break down, but a break down a second time is impressive and marks a breakthrough for Jessie. This one easily could’ve been a tough loss. It could’ve been a “so close”, another “she’s right there with the best” moment. Instead, Jessie stayed calm, stayed poised, and made it into a triumphant breakthrough.
Beat the Best
What’s the expression? “To be the best, you have to beat the best!” That’s what Jessie did. That’s what Jessie needed to do. As I’ve said, she’s been right there. She’s established herself as a consistent top 5. She’s ready. She can’t just be “happy to be there” anymore. Great job proving it!! When it mattered, when it was on the line, Jessie beat the best. Well done!
Ready for a Slam / Ready for #1
Yes! If Jessie can win a 1000 series, defeat Swiatek, and then destroy her final round opponent, she can win a major and be number 1. There’s no one Jessie can’t beat in a big situation. She just proved it. I understand a 1000 series is a tier below a slam, but in so many ways it’s the same, in the women’s game especially. All top players are required to play. They play the same best 2 out of 3 format. The crowd’s significant. It’s not like players don’t try as hard or are saying “It doesn’t matter, not a major.” This was a statement victory for Jessie. As much as folks were trying to downplay that she hadn’t had this breakthrough, it was needed. Folks will now seriously consider her a slam contender. She’s ready!
So what do you think of Jessica Pegula’s breakthrough? Will it lead to a U.S. Open title? She’s back to number 3. Will she be able to move up the rankings further? Let me know your thoughts. Let’s talk tennis!
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