Pegula beats Yuan to claim Korea Open title. Fernandez wins Hong Kong Open

The Korea Open final saw Jessica Pegula triumph over Yuan Yue with a score of 6-2, 6-3, clinching her fourth career title in impressive fashion.

With only one set lost throughout the tournament, Pegula becomes the first American since Venus Williams in 2007 to secure victory in Seoul.

Reflecting on her win, Pegula expressed her excitement, stating, “My mom is Korean and she was adopted from here so it’s really special to be able to win here. In recent years, as my ranking has risen, I’ve received a lot more support from the fans than I expected upon returning after five years. So it’s truly a special moment.”

Despite this being her first career final, Yuan, ranked 128th, displayed remarkable composure and even earned a break point in Pegula’s opening service game. However, the American skillfully saved it with a forehand winner.

Following this, the world No. 4-ranked player dominated with eight consecutive wins, securing the first set and establishing a 3-0 lead in the second, setting the stage for a quick victory.

Although Yuan managed to rally back to 3-4, Pegula’s powerful baseline play ultimately propelled her to her first title outside of North America since her triumph in Montreal earlier this year.

Meanwhile, at the Hong Kong Open, Leylah Fernandez overcame Katerina Siniakova in a thrilling three-set battle (3-6, 6-4, 6-4) to claim her first title in 19 months.

This victory marks the third title of the 21-year-old Canadian’s career and her first since March 2022, when she emerged victorious at Monterrey. Her triumph also ensures her return to the top 50 in the rankings next week.

Initially, Fernandez experienced some nerves, allowing Siniakova, ranked 85th, to secure two breaks and claim the first set.

However, Fernandez quickly rallied, establishing a 4-0 lead in the second set. Siniakova, after taking a medical timeout off the court, returned with her left upper leg taped and displayed improved performance, reducing the deficit to 3-4. Nonetheless, Fernandez demonstrated resilience by saving six break points in a grueling 10-deuce game, ultimately holding her serve and seizing the set in her subsequent service game.

In the deciding set, both players exchanged breaks, but it was Fernandez who made the final crucial break, taking a 5-4 lead before confidently serving out the win after 2 hours and 49 minutes of intense play.

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