Search for active players ...
Pegula Outlasts Kudermetova in Thriller
Veronika Kudermetova v. Jessica Pegula
In a gripping first-round encounter at the WTA Beijing, Jessica Pegula overcame Veronika Kudermetova in a three-set thriller, winning 6-7(9), 6-1, 6-2. The match, which took place on September 29, 2024, showcased the statistical prowess and mental fortitude of Pegula, who fought back after losing a tightly contested first set in a tiebreak.
The match kicked off with a highly competitive first set, marked by a flurry of breakpoints. Kudermetova, serving with precision, managed to fend off multiple break opportunities from Pegula, saving seven of nine breakpoints. The set culminated in a tense tiebreaker, where Kudermetova's aggressive play paid dividends, edging Pegula 11-9. Despite losing the set, Pegula's resilience was evident as she managed to win crucial points in the tiebreak.
Pegula's turnaround was truly spectacular in the second set. She capitalized on Kudermetova's dip in first serve accuracy and pounced on every opportunity to break her opponent's serve. The American broke Kudermetova twice and held her serve comfortably, racing to a 6-1 set victory. Pegula's first serve success rate of 80% was a notable highlight, allowing her to control the pace of the game effectively.
The decisive third set saw Pegula maintain her momentum. She broke Kudermetova early and sustained her dominance throughout. Kudermetova struggled with her second serve, double-faulting at critical junctures, which Pegula exploited. The match statistics revealed Pegula's strategic edge: she won 75% of points on her first serve and 60% on her second serve in the final set, translating to a comprehensive 6-2 win.
Across the match, Pegula's adaptability and consistency were key. She totaled 10 aces and maintained a first-serve percentage of 68%, significantly higher than Kudermetova's 58%. Pegula's comeback victory underscores her tenacity and provides a valuable boost as she progresses deeper into the tournament, hoping to replicate or even improve upon her recent performances on the WTA circuit.
