Jessica Pegula seemingly throws Daniil Medvedev shade after US Open controversy with Tommy Fleetwood’s poignant ‘good person first’ reminder
Jessica Pegula, ranked No. 4, appeared to throw shade at Daniil Medvedev following their mixed doubles clash at the 2025 US Open, where she and Jack Draper defeated Medvedev and Mirra Andreeva 4-2, 4-2 on August 20. The match, part of the revamped mixed doubles event, sparked controversy due to Medvedev’s on-court behavior, prompting Pegula to emphasize sportsmanship in a post-match press conference, echoing golfer Tommy Fleetwood’s poignant “good person first” reminder. Her comments stirred debate as fans interpreted them as a subtle jab at Medvedev’s conduct.
The Controversy and Pegula’s Remarks
During the US Open mixed doubles quarterfinal, Medvedev’s frustration was evident as he argued with umpire Clare Wood over a time violation call, sarcastically clapping and muttering, “Great job, really professional” (Sportskeeda, August 20, 2025) (web:5). Pegula, in her press conference, praised Draper’s professionalism, saying, “Jack’s intensity and respect on court are top-notch. It’s about being a good competitor first” (Sportskeeda, August 20, 2025) (web:5). Fans on X linked her words to Medvedev, with one post stating, “Pegula’s class comment was shade at Daniil’s antics!” (@TennisVibes, August 21, 2025) (post:2). Her remarks resonated with Fleetwood’s 2024 Ryder Cup quote, “Be a good person first, then a golfer,” which Pegula referenced when discussing tournament conduct (GolfDigest, September 2024).
Fleetwood’s Influence and Medvedev’s Context
Fleetwood’s philosophy, emphasizing character over competition, gained traction after his 2023 Ryder Cup performance, inspiring athletes across sports (GolfDigest, September 2024). Pegula, a known golf enthusiast, adopted this mindset, criticizing the US Open’s mixed doubles format changes but urging respectful dialogue (Tennis.com, August 11, 2025) (web:3). Medvedev, known for fiery outbursts, faced backlash for his behavior, though some defended him, citing the pressure of the new “Fast 4” format and his 2025 struggles, including a Wimbledon semifinal loss (Tennis.com). Pegula’s team advanced to the semifinals, losing to Neal Skupski and Desirae Krawczyk 7-6(5), 6-7(5), 10-8 (LetsPlayTennis.co.uk, August 20, 2025) (web:11).
Broader Implications
Pegula’s subtle dig mirrors tensions in sports, like Coco Gauff’s coaching shifts or Luke Littler’s darts rivalries, where conduct shapes public perception. Fans on X were divided, with one post noting, “Jessica’s right to call out Daniil’s attitude—class matters” (@TennisFanUSA, August 21, 2025), while another defended Medvedev, saying, “He’s passionate, not disrespectful” (@MedvedevFan, August 21, 2025). As Pegula advances in singles against Mayar Sherif and Medvedev faces Juan Pablo Varillas, their contrasting approaches—Pegula’s measured sportsmanship versus Medvedev’s intensity—highlight the US Open’s emotional stakes, with Fleetwood’s ethos as a backdrop.
