American Jessica Pegula (30) staged a stunning comeback to defeat Karolina Muchova (28) 1-6, 6-4, 6-2 on Thursday, booking her spot in the US Open final for the first time. Despite a shaky start, where she appeared outclassed by her Czech opponent, Pegula turned the match around in a remarkable display of resilience. The win sets up a thrilling final showdown against second-seed Aryna Sabalenka (26), who earlier overcame Emma Navarro.
Pegula’s semi-final debut got off to a rocky start. Muchova dominated the opening set 6-1, as the American could manage only three winners. Pegula seemed out of sorts, struggling to find her rhythm while Muchova appeared poised and confident, showing no signs of weakness after returning from a lengthy wrist injury. The first set was over quickly, leaving the American with plenty of work to do.
The second set began similarly, with Muchova going 2-0 up. At that point, it looked as though Pegula was heading for an early exit. But the American gradually clawed her way back into the contest. A break in the fourth game provided a glimmer of hope, and Pegula seized the opportunity by breaking her opponent again in the sixth game, shifting momentum in her favor.
What followed was a dramatic turnaround. Pegula, who admitted that Muchova “made me look like a beginner” in the first set, dug deep and began to display the form that had seen her win 14 of her last 15 matches. After an intense battle in the seventh game, Muchova broke back, but her growing mistakes and a crucial double fault on set point allowed Pegula to level the match at one set apiece. Pegula’s mental toughness was key during this period. “It comes down to really small moments that flip momentum,” Pegula said after the match, reflecting on how she managed to regain control.
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The Decisive Final Set
With the Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd firmly behind her, Pegula dominated the final set. She stormed to a 3-0 lead, playing nearly flawless tennis. Muchova, who had shown resilience throughout the tournament, was unable to keep up with Pegula’s increased intensity. The American sealed victory with a fine forehand return on her second match point, throwing her hands up in joy as the crowd erupted in celebration.
Muchova had entered the match fresh off a victory over defending champion Coco Gauff and looked confident throughout the tournament. However, Pegula’s persistence and ability to raise her game at key moments proved decisive in her march to the final.
Pegula will now face Aryna Sabalenka in the final. Sabalenka, who overcame Navarro in straight sets earlier in the day, will be a tough opponent for Pegula, but the American’s strong mental game and recent form make her a formidable contender.
