Jessica Pegula from the United States did not have a memorable performance at the Paris Olympics as she was defeated by Elina Svitolina from Ukraine in the second round. However, that is now in the past! She is now ready to face former world number one, Karolina Pliskova, in the Round of 32 at the Canadian Open. Both Pegula and Pliskova have won one title each this season. Who will emerge victorious in this exciting matchup in Toronto?
Pegula has faced some challenges with her fitness this year. Despite these difficulties, she managed to win the grass court event in Berlin and reached three semifinals and one quarterfinal this year. On the other hand, Pliskova, aside from winning a title, reached one final and one semifinal this year. Both players are eager to gain momentum in the North American hard court swing.
Pegula is entering this match after her 6-4, 1-6, 3-6 loss to Svitolina in the second round of the Paris Olympics. Pegula hit 1 ace and did not commit any double faults throughout the match. She won 65% of her first serves and 43% of her second serves, but was only able to convert 3 out of 4 of her breakpoints.
Pliskova enters this match fresh off her 6-4, 7-6(10) triumph over Nadia Podoroska in the Round of 64 of this tournament. The Czech tennis sensation delivered 7 aces and made 5 double faults throughout the contest. She managed to convert 3 out of 5 breakpoints against her Argentinian opponent, while winning 70% of her first serves and 58% of her second serves.
Interestingly, these two tennis stars have only faced each other in the year 2021. Pegula currently holds a 4-1 advantage over Pliskova in their head-to-head encounters.
In their most recent meeting, Pliskova emerged victorious. Will history repeat itself here in Toronto?
Looking at their current rankings, Pegula is positioned at 6th in the global standings, while Pliskova sits at 45th. The American player boasts a season record of 21 wins and 11 losses, compared to the Czech’s 18 wins and 14 losses. Considering their current form, statistics, and previous encounter, Pegula appears to have the upper hand. However, it’s important not to discount their playing styles.
Pegula’s versatile game style, characterized by flat groundstrokes, will be tested against Pliskova’s aggressive approach. Pliskova relies on power and accuracy as the main components of her game. She possesses the ability to generate immense power in her forehands and backhands, utilizing her wide wingspan to her advantage. Her strategic tactics may prove beneficial against Pliskova.
On the other hand, Pliskova is known for her ability to deliver numerous aces, but she is also prone to committing double faults. This season alone, she has hit 221 aces and made 200 double faults. In addition to her exceptional serving skills, she possesses the capability to unleash powerful groundstrokes from any position on the court, resulting in winners. However, her movement has been identified as her biggest weakness, which Pegula will likely exploit to secure victory in this match.
Photo from Jessica Pegula (X) Account
