Jessica Pegula beats Coco Gauff at the WTA Finals to reach the title match

CANCUN, Mexico (AP) — On a rainy and windy evening, Jessica Pegula showcased her skill as she outplayed U.S. Open winner Coco Gauff, securing a 6-2, 6-1 victory at the WTA Finals. This exciting showdown featured two American doubles partners, and it marked Pegula’s first appearance in the championship title match.

Their semifinal was evenly matched at 2-all before Pegula, the fifth-seeded player, seized control, winning six games in a row to claim the first set and take a 2-0 lead in the second. Pegula’s victory marked the first time since 2002 that two American women faced each other in the final four of this prestigious event, with Serena Williams defeating Jennifer Capriati back then.

After the match, Pegula expressed her admiration for her opponent, acknowledging Gauff as the present and future of U.S. tennis. As one of the leaders among American players, Pegula sees herself in a prominent position within the sport. Additionally, Pegula and Gauff were scheduled to team up for a doubles match later that day.

In this tournament for the top eight players in women’s tennis, Pegula has been in exceptional form, winning all eight singles sets she has played. This accomplishment is reminiscent of Serena Williams, who achieved the same feat in 2012. Pegula will now face No. 1 seed Aryna Sabalenka or No. 2 seed Iga Swiatek in the final on Sunday. Both Sabalenka and Swiatek are Grand Slam champions, making Pegula aware that she may be considered the underdog once again despite her strong performance.

Delays caused by showers and shifting breezes did not hinder Pegula, who has been invigorated by her successful run in the tournament. Following this challenging competition, Pegula believes it will boost her confidence as she looks ahead to the next tennis season.

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AP tennis: https://apnews.com/hub/tennis