Can Pegula Overcome Azarenka's Comeback to Claim Victory?

American tennis star Jessica Pegula has continued her impressive run at the 2025 US Open, winning all her matches in straight sets, including a hard-fought victory over Victoria Azarenka in the third round. This performance keeps Pegula's hopes alive for her first Grand Slam title on home soil.

Last updated: 04 September 2025 (BST)

Key Takeaways from Pegula's Journey So Far

• Pegula defeated Azarenka 6-1, 7-5, showcasing resilience despite a second-set challenge.
• She will face either Ann Li or Priscilla Hon in the fourth round.
• Pegula aims for her first Grand Slam title after finishing as a finalist in 2024.
• Italian seventh seed Jasmine Paolini faced an unexpected defeat against Marketa Vondrousova.

Jessica Pegula's Performance: A Deep Dive

In the third round of the 2025 US Open, Pegula faced a formidable opponent in Victoria Azarenka, a two-time Grand Slam champion. The match began dominantly for Pegula, who secured the first set with ease, taking it 6-1. Her aggressive play and strategic movement on the court put her in command early on.

However, the second set proved to be more challenging. Azarenka, who was visibly struggling with a leg injury, began to find her rhythm. She showcased her experience and skill, breaking Pegula's serve and fighting back to create a tense atmosphere. Despite the challenges, Pegula managed to regain her composure, ultimately sealing the match with a final score of 7-5 in the second set.

The Road Ahead: Fourth Round Expectations

Pegula's victory puts her in the last 16 of the tournament, where she will face either Ann Li or Priscilla Hon. Both players are less experienced on the Grand Slam stage compared to Pegula, making her a favourite to progress further. The American is keen to harness her momentum, especially given her past experience of finishing as a runner-up in the previous year's US Open.

"I just tried to focus on going back to my strategy, things that went well in the first set," Pegula commented after her match against Azarenka. She highlighted the importance of physicality in her game, asserting that making the match physically demanding was part of her strategy.

Context of the Tournament: A Look at the Draw

The 2025 US Open is taking place at Flushing Meadows, New York, from 24 August to 7 September. The tournament has seen its share of surprises, including the early exit of highly regarded players. Among them, Jasmine Paolini, the Italian seventh seed, was unexpectedly defeated in straight sets by world number 60 Marketa Vondrousova, further opening up the draw for remaining competitors.

Pegula's journey is particularly noteworthy given her performance in previous Grand Slam tournaments. After reaching the finals in 2024, she is determined to convert her potential into a title this year. Her ability to adapt and overcome challenges, as demonstrated in her match against Azarenka, will be crucial as she moves forward.

Azarenka's Resilience: A Closer Look

Victoria Azarenka's performance, despite the loss, showcased her enduring talent and competitive spirit. The 36-year-old former world number one displayed flashes of her best tennis, particularly in the second set, where she made a strong comeback and put pressure on Pegula. However, inconsistency and physical challenges ultimately hindered her quest for victory.

Azarenka's experience and tactical acumen were evident as she attempted to shift the momentum in her favour. "Obviously she picked up her level in the second set... I could tell she was struggling a bit physically," Pegula noted, recognising Azarenka's skill as a formidable opponent. The match served as a reminder of Azarenka's capability to challenge high-ranking players, even when not at her peak physical condition.

What’s Next for Jessica Pegula?

As Pegula prepares for her fourth-round match, her goal is clear: to secure her place in the quarter-finals and ultimately aim for the championship title. With a strong support base from the home crowd and her determination to succeed, she is poised to make an impactful run in this year’s tournament.

Her journey reflects a broader narrative within women’s tennis, where the competition is fierce and the stakes are high. Each match presents an opportunity for players to assert their dominance and claim their spot among tennis greats.

Conclusion: The Path to Glory

Jessica Pegula’s journey through the 2025 US Open thus far has highlighted her potential and resilience as she aims for her first Grand Slam title. With each victory, she moves closer to fulfilling her dream on home soil. As she prepares for her next match, the tennis world watches closely, eager to see if she can continue her impressive form and ultimately lift the coveted trophy.

As the tournament progresses, which players will rise to the occasion and challenge Pegula, and will she finally secure her first Grand Slam title? The excitement builds as we look forward to the next round of matches. #USOpen2025 #JessicaPegula #Tennis

FAQs

What is Jessica Pegula's current performance in the US Open 2025?

Jessica Pegula has won all her matches in straight sets at the US Open 2025, including a significant victory over Victoria Azarenka in the third round.

Who will Pegula face in the fourth round of the tournament?

Pegula will face either her compatriot Ann Li or Australia's Priscilla Hon in the fourth round of the US Open 2025.

What were the main challenges faced by Azarenka in her match against Pegula?

Azarenka struggled with a leg injury during the match, which impacted her performance, especially in the first set where she committed multiple double faults.

What is the significance of Pegula's potential first Grand Slam title?

A first Grand Slam title would mark a significant achievement in Pegula's career, particularly as she aims to win it on home soil at the US Open.

What is the format of the US Open tournament?

The US Open is played in a knockout format, where players compete in rounds, and winners advance until the finals. The tournament features both singles and doubles events.