Jessica Pegula has finally cracked the code at Melbourne Park. After stalling out of the quarters for three consecutive years, the American star broke through her personal glass ceiling Wednesday by defeating compatriate Amanda Anisimova 6-2, 7-6(1) to book her first-ever trip to the Australian Open semis.
Mastering the Moment
For Jessica Pegula, this victory was about more than just forehands and backhands; it was a victory of composure.
The sixth seed appeared to be incredibly settled, shaking off the “quarterfinal curse” that had 2021 to 2023. She played a clinical smart game, with clean striking and calm decision-making to take her opponent down.
“I’m pleased with how I’ve done today,” Jessica Pegula admitted post-match. She admitted the match had its ups and downs but attributed being able to stay “mentally tough” as the factor that made the difference, especially in the second set when the pressure was on.
Weathering the Storm
The match started as a rout. The 31-year-old Jessica Pegula wasted no time, breaking the hearts of Amanda Anisimova to love right out of the gate. She finished the first set 6-2 in just over 30 minutes, sealing it with an ace as Amanda Anisimova was having trouble finding answers.
But the second set was another matter. The fourth seed, Amanda Anisimova, was able to find her range at last and cranked up the pressure, breaking Jessica Pegula to take a late lead.
However, she was unable to grip it. A costly double foult allowed Jessica Pegula to break right back. Although Pegula missed her first opportunity to serve out the match, she ran away with the ensuing tiebreak, 7-1, practically slamming the door on Amanda Anisimova’s hopes.
Experience Over Youth
Jessica Pegula’s late-career rise is falling into the definition of a defining narrative. All three of her major semi-finals appearances have taken place after the age of 30, and this has proved that for her, experience is a superpower.
She noted that having “more tools” and a bigger understanding of big moments has given her the confidence to win despite things not going perfectly.
While Amanda Anisimova had moments of brilliance, her lack of consistency with her serve and visible frustration finally cost her.
Jessica Pegula now takes on fifth seed Elena Rybakina in a bid to take another step forward in a tournament in which she has tested her resilience for years.
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.
