Jessica Pegula won easily over her Australian Open doubles partner, McCartney Kessler in the second round. Playing on Rod Laver Arena, Pegula defeated her compatriate in straight sets, 6-0 6-2 in a match that took just under an hour.
Record-Breaking Crowds
At her post-match press conference, Pegula commented on the striking increase in spectator numbers at Melbourne Park. While she admitted that she was aware of the record-breaking attendance figures before the tournament took place, she said the crowded atmosphere has been a positive aspect of this tournament so far.
“I don’t really walk around and watch matches, but I’ve seen the lines of people trying to get into courts and it looks incredibly busy,” Pegula said. I’ve read the reports that this is one of the busiest years ever which I think is amazing. “It really is an indication that the event and the sport are growing.
She pointed out a particular case on a match played by Eala, noting that fans were wrapped around the stadium trying to get in. “It’s an exciting thing to see, I can’t say for the fan experience because I don’t have their shoes. Hopefully, the event does not stop managing the growth of the event so it is enjoyable for everyone who is there.”
Coaching Style Modifications and Preferences
Pegula, who has competed in her singles matches on the big show courts, though left the doubles tournament on Court 15, also commented on the tournament’s coaching rules. As another example, since last year, the Australian Open has adopted “coaches pods” on show courts, which can allow for a closer interaction between players and their teams.
Despite the overall positive response to this change, Pegula admitted that she likes having less communication while playing. “I’ve always been a ‘less is more’ kind of a player,” she explained. “Unless there is something glaringly obvious, I don’t really like to chat.”
She described her preferences for coaching as more responding to indications about patterns or specific plays than taking direct instruction. “I like to solve problems, to figure things out on my own. I don’t respond to someone just saying to me, ‘do this’ or ‘do that.’ “I prefer an open dialogue and having my brain work on the problem.”
However, she admitted that the layout at the Australian Open has a particular advantage over the other Grand Slams. With the boxes being down lower and closer to the court here it makes it so much easier to hear my team.” “I’ve noticed a lot of improvement in my game since playing in the Winter Wonderland.” “I was able to run more than I would have otherwise.”
“The people in the stands are awesome.” “It’s a different experience playing in the Winter Wonderland.” “It’s a good way to get some Summer fun.”
“I was able to join a team and that’s something I love to do.”
“It’s fun to see your parents in the stands.”
“I was able to explore more of the campus At other slams, they are often so far away, that you can’t really make out what they’re saying anyway.”
The Path Forward
With her doubles campaign now behind, Pegula puts her full focus on the singles bracket. She hopes to develop from her excellent start in Melbourne as she prepares for her next challenge. Her upcoming opponent is a world number 101, Oksana Selekhmeteva, to whom she has not played before.
Saurabh is a passionate tennis content writer and lifelong fan of the game. Whether it’s Grand Slam showdowns or under-the-radar rising stars, Saurabh brings the court to life with sharp analysis, breaking news, and deep-dive features. When they aren’t covering matches, you can find them practicing their topspin forehand or debating who is the GOAT over coffee. Do you enjoy tennis? Then you are in the right place.
