Venus Williams commented on Jessica Pegula and her magical run to the US Open.
The 30-year-old finally overcame her Grand Slam quarter-final struggles and progressed beyond the last eight at Flushing Meadows all the way to Saturday’s championship match.
Though Pegula gave her best efforts she was outlasted by Aryna Sabalenka, who claimed her third Grand Slam title and first in New York.
Despite coming up short Pegula has played some excellent tennis through the course of the North American hard court season in which she lost just two matches and both came against Sabalenka.
What does Venus Williams think of US Open runner-up Jessica Pegula?
Jessica Pegula had struggled to find her best tennis throughout the 2024 season until she returned to the North American hard courts this summer.
The last month has certainly been the player’s best portion of the season so far and her results have propelled her to a career-high ranking of number three.
Her US Open run impressed Venus Williams and the seven-time Grand Slam champion reacted to her performances at Flushing Meadows during an appearance on Good Morning America.
“It was close and this was her first time so it’s a good experience for her,” Williams said. “She never gives up. I really, really respect her as a competitor.”
What has Jessica Pegula previously said about Venus Williams?
Williams’ comments on Pegula come over a year after she defended the four-time Olympic champion’s decision to continue playing despite being in her 40s.
“I think she should just do whatever she wants,” Pegula said in July 2023. “Clearly, that’s what she’s doing now. She wants to play. I think it’s amazing. It’s incredible that she’s still competing and playing well and winning matches at this age.
“She’s an icon of our sport. I think for her to still be out there just shows her passion and how much she loves to compete and play.
“I think it’s amazing. It’s crazy that she’s still playing very well and competing. I know she loves the grass, so I’m sure that helps.”
During an interview with Harper Bazaar UK on Monday, Williams stressed her desire to continue playing tennis even if just for the physical benefits rather than results.
“I’m still training, not every day like before but I’ll always need to be on court. It’s a wonderful way to stay fit, burn calories and have great legs and arms!,” she said.
“If you want to look good, play tennis. It doesn’t look like work but it’s exhausting. I will do that as long as I have cartilage. If I keep playing, hopefully the aging process won’t start.”
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