US Open Finalist Pegula Embraces Unpredictability in Maiden Major Bid

Jessica Pegula is preparing for the 2025 U.S. Open with a focus on embracing the tournament's unpredictability as she seeks her first Grand Slam title. Despite six previous losses in Grand Slam quarter-finals and a runner-up finish at last year's U.S. Open, Pegula remains motivated by the individual challenge of tennis and the unique atmosphere of the New York event. She acknowledges the tournament's open field, with 10 different champions in the last 11 years, and the energizing role of the crowd, which she describes as electric and chaotic. However, Pegula has recently struggled with inconsistent performance, having lost four of her last six matches prior to the U.S. Open. She attributes part of her frustration to being a perfectionist and is determined to overcome her current slump without excuses. Pegula's experience at the U.S. Open, combined with her resilience and love for competing solo, fuels her drive to succeed on home soil again this year.