“Unlucky circumstance for Madi”: Jessica Pegula weighs in on Madison Keys’ absence at ATX Open due to WTA Rule:
Jessica Pegula on Madison Keys’ ATX Open Absence: “It Was Just an Unlucky Situation”
Jessica Pegula recently addressed the absence of fellow American Madison Keys from the ATX Open in Austin, explaining how a WTA rule prevented two top-10 players from being in the tournament’s draw.
Starting this year, WTA 250 events can feature only one top-10 player. Previously, up to two top-10 players were allowed, but the rule was changed to help lower-ranked players gain more opportunities and encourage top players to focus on bigger events like WTA 500s, WTA 1000s, and Grand Slams.
Keys’ Ranking Rise Forced Her Withdrawal
When the tournament’s entry list was finalized—just before the Australian Open—Pegula was the only top-10 player registered. Keys, then ranked No. 14, was also included in the draw.
However, after winning her first Grand Slam title in Melbourne, Keys’ ranking skyrocketed to No. 7, and later No. 5, making her the third-highest ranked American behind Coco Gauff (No. 3) and Pegula (No. 4).
Due to this ranking change, the tournament was forced to remove Keys from the field in compliance with the one top-10 player rule.
Pegula Weighs In: “You Can See Both Sides”
Speaking at the tournament, Pegula acknowledged the controversy surrounding the rule but understood its intent.
“It’s so hard to say because you can see both sides, right? Sometimes there are small tournaments before big ones—like here before Indian Wells—and you could have a couple of top-10 players,” said the 2024 US Open finalist.
“Maybe that doesn’t benefit the lower-ranked players who are trying to get into these tournaments, gain points, and build momentum to reach bigger events.”
While she admitted that Keys’ situation was unfortunate, Pegula also believed the new rule benefits rising players.
“It’s tough when something like that happens to Madi (Keys), and she can’t play. But at the same time, I think this was a rare circumstance, and she’s not beating herself up over it—you know, she just won the Australian Open, so I think she’s pretty happy,” she added.
Keys Was Keen to Play in Austin
Pegula also revealed that Keys was eager to compete at the ATX Open, even checking with her about their participation.
“She kept asking me if I was going to play, and if not, she would take my spot. She still wanted to come, but I think it just depends on the player,” Pegula shared.
Despite the unfortunate timing, Pegula believes the WTA’s efforts to expand 500-level tournaments have helped smooth the transition.
“A lot of 500s have been upgraded with more points and prize money, so I don’t think this transition was too bad. There are more opportunities now.”
“It was just a little bit of an unlucky situation for Madi. But overall, I think the rule is good for lower-ranked players, and having just one top-10 player in these events seems fair.”
Pegula Advances in Austin
Meanwhile, Pegula is making a strong run at the ATX Open, having defeated Arantxa Rus and Nuria Parrizas without dropping a set. She is set to face Anna Blinkova in the quarterfinals as she aims for the title.
