“Heartbreak at US Open 2024: Jessica Pegula’s Winning Streak Shattered in Epic Final, But Her Bold Comeback Could Be Just Beginning!”

Jessica Pegula reached her first Grand Slam final at the US Open on Saturday, and although she was defeated by a dominant opponent, the top American in women’s tennis remains confident this won’t be her last opportunity to compete for a major title.

In a hard-fought 5-7, 5-7 loss to world No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka, Pegula ended her streak of six unsuccessful quarter-final appearances at Grand Slams. Speaking after the final, the 30-year-old described her performance as a significant confidence booster, much like other key moments in her career.

“I’ve gained confidence from winning a 250, then a 1000, and now multiple 1000s. Becoming a Grand Slam finalist was the next step,” Pegula said. “I’ve made a lot of quarter-finals, but could I make a semi? Could I actually contend for a Grand Slam? In the past, I’ve lost to players who went on to win the tournament, so I know my level is close.”

After dealing with an injury earlier in the season that caused her to miss Roland Garros, Pegula embraced a more relaxed approach at this year’s US Open, which proved beneficial. “I handled the pressure better this year, especially after a tough start to the season. I didn’t expect to do so well during the hard-court stretch, but I was able to change that narrative.”

Pegula’s impressive run in New York will elevate her to a career-high No. 3 in the world rankings, while fellow American Emma Navarro will break into the top 10.

In men’s doubles, Australians Max Purcell and Jordan Thompson bounced back from their Wimbledon final loss, claiming the US Open title with a 6-4, 7-6 (7-4) win over Germany’s Kevin Krawietz and Tim Puetz.