Jessica Pegula, a US Open finalist last year, returned to the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center with a commanding performance, defeating Egypt's Mayar Sherif in straight sets. While the outcome was expected, the match had its moments of tension.
Pegula started with an incredible pace, securing the first set in just 22 minutes. She capitalized on Sherif's nerves, which were apparent from a double fault on the very first point. Pegula broke Sherif's serve three times in the set, and Sherif won only eight points in total, struggling especially on her first serve.
"I was really happy that I started off really quick," Pegula said. "Coming out for the second night match, waiting all day, opening day, is nerve-wracking. So I'm glad I came out really fast and gave myself a nice cushion."
However, Sherif, a player known for her tenacity on clay, wasn't going down without a fight. She rallied in the second set, winning the first two games and even securing a break point. Sherif’s lead grew to 4-1, and for a moment, it seemed the match might extend to a third set.
Pegula, a three-time winner on the WTA Tour this year, quickly regained her composure. She saved a crucial break point in the next game and then snapped back into gear, winning five straight games to seal the victory. She ended the match with a powerful forehand that wrong-footed Sherif.
"I'm glad I was able to turn it around and get it done in straight sets," Pegula said.
The win marks a successful return for Pegula, who will now face Anna Blinkova in the next round. The victory gives the American some much-needed momentum after an uneven hard-court season. Pegula's triumphant return to Arthur Ashe Stadium was a stark contrast to her last appearance there, where she fell in the 2024 final. With this win, she hopes to make another deep run at the US Open, adding to her impressive career accomplishments.
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