“I Could Win” – Jessica Pegula Holds Her Ground Before Miami Open Final Battle With Aryna Sabalenka
“I Could Win” – Jessica Pegula Confident Ahead of Miami Open Final Against Aryna Sabalenka
The Rivalry Intensifies
The battle between Jessica Pegula and Aryna Sabalenka is shaping up into one of the most exciting rivalries in women’s tennis. Last season, Sabalenka bested Pegula twice—once in Cincinnati and again in a heartbreaking US Open final. Frustrated yet determined, Pegula admitted back then, “I’m just annoyed I lost right now,” acknowledging Sabalenka’s ability to dominate matches.
Now, seven months later, they’re set for another showdown—this time in the Miami Open final. Will this be the moment Pegula finally turns the tables?
Pegula’s Stellar Season So Far
Pegula has been in formidable form throughout 2025. She kicked off the year with a runner-up finish in Adelaide and followed it up with her first WTA title of the season earlier this month, bringing her career singles title count to seven.
Now, as she prepares for her first Miami Open final, Pegula remains confident. Speaking at a press conference on March 28, she reflected on her place among the best hardcourt players today, saying:
“I feel like I’m one of them. Sabalenka’s had better results—winning Australia, the US Open, beating me in Cincy and New York. It’s going to be tough, but hopefully, I can get the better of her here. That would be awesome. I’m really proud to be competing at this level.”
A Historic Miami Open Final
This final carries historical significance. It marks the first time since 2014—when Serena Williams defeated Li Na—that two Top 5 players are competing for the Miami Open title. Moreover, the winner will be the first Top 10 player to secure a WTA 1000 title or higher this season.
Renowned coach Rick Macci, who once mentored Serena Williams, believes Pegula has what it takes to win a Grand Slam this year. After watching her dominant Miami campaign—including a key victory over rising star Alexandra Eala—Macci took to X, saying:
“Pegula has always been one of the best pure ball strikers on tour not to win a Slam. She can beat anybody, anytime, anywhere. The Buffalo Blaster could grab a SLAM this year. @JessicaPeg96546.”
Sabalenka’s Road to the Final
Aryna Sabalenka, the World No. 1, has been in top form despite a few setbacks. Her only major disappointment came at the Australian Open, where Madison Keys halted her three-peat bid in the semifinals. Still, she rebounded with a title in Brisbane and another final appearance at Indian Wells, where she fell to 17-year-old Mirra Andreeva.
Following her semifinal victory against Jasmine Paolini, Sabalenka reflected on her resilience this season:
“It’s tough to bring your best tennis every time. You’re always struggling with something. But the way I adjusted and fought through different challenges, I feel like I’m playing at a really high level right now.”
Despite early exits in Doha and Dubai, Sabalenka has had a strong season. Looking ahead to the final, she acknowledged the fierce competition Pegula presents:
“It’s always a battle. Cincinnati was a great level for me, but maybe not for her. The US Open final was just crazy. She fought hard in that second set. It was a tough match.”
Head-to-Head: Sabalenka vs. Pegula
Sabalenka holds a 6-2 advantage in their previous matchups, including three wins on hard courts. Pegula’s only hardcourt victory against the Belarusian came at the 2020 Western & Southern Open in New York. With this history in mind, will Pegula finally break through, or will Sabalenka continue her dominance?
Your Prediction
Who do you think will win the Miami Open final?
- Jessica Pegula will finally triumph
- Sabalenka remains too strong
- It’ll be a close contest
- Not sure
Share your thoughts in the comments below!
