Jessica Pegula beats Iga Swiatek to reach US Open semi-final

As the sixth seed, Pegula celebrated her momentous victory by raising her arms in triumph before an enthusiastic home crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium, marking her seventh quarter-final in a major tournament.

"I have reached the quarter-finals numerous times, but I kept falling short," she remarked. "At last, I can proudly say I am a semi-finalist."

Swiatek, who had withdrawn from the previous month's Canadian Open due to fatigue, struggled from the outset, grappling with her serve and contributing to her own downfall with 41 unforced errors.

The Polish player had not faced a break since the tournament's first round but faltered early, losing her serve due to a double fault in the opening game and again in the third.

In the second set, Pegula maintained control, breaking Swiatek once more in the third game. However, the 2022 champion responded with a forehand winner to break back in the fourth game, showing signs of resilience.

Despite this, Pegula refused to relinquish her advantage, applying consistent pressure during a tense four-deuce game in the seventh, while Swiatek expressed her frustration by striking her thigh after sending a forehand out on break point.

Leading 40-0 in the final game, Pegula drew on the support of the crowd to push through, as Swiatek countered with two impressive winners to remain in contention.

Ultimately, Pegula celebrated her victory when Swiatek's shot went out on match point.

"I am grateful to the crowd," she expressed. "You helped me through that final game."

Pegula now joins fellow American Emma Navarro in the semi-finals and will face Czech player Karolina Muchova next. Additionally, Americans Taylor Fritz and Frances Tiafoe have also advanced to the men's semi-finals.

SportsLigue