Jessica Pegula enters the 2024 U.S. Open with high hopes, aiming to secure her first-ever Grand Slam title. Ranked No. 6 in the world, Pegula is one of the favorites to go deep in the tournament, a reflection of her consistent performance and rising status in the sport. As she steps onto the courts at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City, the Buffalo Bills heiress is determined to prove that she belongs among the tennis elite.
Pegula, the daughter of Terry and Kim Pegula, owners of the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres, has made a name for herself in tennis, distinct from her family’s sports empire. Her journey to the top has been marked by hard work and resilience, qualities that have made her a fan favorite.
As Pegula prepares for a strong showing this year, she recently reflected on a memorable moment from a previous tournament. In 2022, after being eliminated by World No. 1 Iga Swiatek in the semifinals, Pegula made headlines for a light-hearted moment at her post-match press conference. Instead of letting the loss weigh her down, she was spotted chugging a Heineken, a scene that quickly went viral.
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However, Pegula later revealed that the beer wasn’t just for comfort after a tough match. She humorously explained that it was also a practical strategy to speed up the mandatory drug testing process that follows high-level matches. “I’m trying to pee for doping,” Pegula joked, adding, “Although it does help ease the loss!”
This year, Pegula has started the U.S. Open with a bang, showing that she’s not only in high spirits but also in top form. She cruised through the First Round with a straight-sets victory over fellow American Shelby Rogers. In the Second Round, Pegula faced another compatriot, Sofia Kenin, and once again won in straight sets, though the first set was a nail-biting tie-breaker.
Next up for Pegula is a match against 21-year-old Spaniard Jessica Bouzas Maneiro, who has also been impressive in the early stages of the tournament.
As Pegula continues her quest for her first Grand Slam title, fans and analysts alike are watching closely, eager to see if she can finally capture the elusive crown. With her mix of skill, experience, and a touch of humor, Jessica Pegula is ready to make her mark in New York.
