Jessica Pegula defeated Karolina Muchova 1-6, 6-4, 6-2 for a berth in her first Grand Slam final. Pegula was struggling initially but returned in some style and knocked out Muchova out of the US Open 2024.
Pegula has won 15 of her past 16 matches and will meet No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka for the title on Saturday.
Not A Promising Start From Pegula
The 2023 French Open runner-up, who was unseeded after a lengthy 10-month absence due to wrist surgery, showcased every bit of her versatility and creativity—qualities that make her a formidable opponent on any surface.
Her slices, net touch, and serve-and-volley play were all on display. Of the first 12 winners in the match, 10 came off her racket. The first set, lasting just 28 minutes, saw Muchova win 30 of the 44 points played.
Muchova initially dominated, winning eight of the first nine games and nearly leading 3-0 in the second set. However, she missed a crucial break opportunity and flubbed a forehand volley, which marked a turning point in the match.
The 52nd-ranked Muchova, who had been unstoppable, suddenly found herself struggling, while Pegula, who had previously overcome top-ranked Iga Swiatek in straight sets, began to find her rhythm. After a slow start, Pegula picked up her game significantly, eventually claiming nine of the next 11 games. This shift allowed her to not only level the second set but also to take a commanding 3-0 lead in the third set.
