In a stunning upset, American Jessica Pegula knocked out world number one Iga Swiatek from the US Open 2024, securing her first ever Grand Slam semifinal berth. The sixth seed, playing in her seventh major quarterfinal, closed out the biggest win of her career in front of a roaring home crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Pegula, with a triumphant cry and hands raised in the air, celebrated a victory that had long eluded her. “I’ve been (to the quarters) so many freaking times – I just kept losing. Finally, I can say semifinalist,” she exclaimed.
Swiatek, who had withdrawn from the Canadian Open due to fatigue, appeared off her game from the start. Struggling with her serve and plagued by unforced errors, she provided Pegula with ample opportunities. The Polish star, who had not been broken since the first round, saw her serve falter in the opening game with a double fault, and again in the third game.
Pegula, playing with confidence and control, took command of the second set, breaking Swiatek again in the third game. However, the 2022 champion refused to go down without a fight, breaking back in the fourth game with a powerful forehand winner.
Despite Swiatek’s brief resurgence, Pegula remained undeterred. She maintained relentless pressure from the baseline, forcing a tense four-deuce game seven. Swiatek’s frustration boiled over as she smacked her thigh after sending a forehand out on break point.
The American, leading 40-0 in the final game, needed the unwavering support of the home crowd to secure the victory. Swiatek, displaying impressive resilience, countered with two stunning winners to keep the match alive.
Finally, after a tense rally, Pegula triumphed as Swiatek sent a shot long on match point. “Thank you to the crowd. You carried me through the last game,” she acknowledged.
Pegula, alongside compatriot Emma Navarro, is now one of four American players to reach the semifinals of the US Open. She will next face Czech Karolina Muchova.
On the men’s side, Americans Taylor Fritz and Frances Tiafoe have also advanced to the semifinals, showcasing a strong contingent of American talent in the tournament.
