New York: American tennis players Jessica Pegula and Tommy Paul both secured their places in the fourth round of the US Open with impressive performances on Saturday. Sixth-seeded Pegula delivered a clinical 6-3, 6-3 victory over Spain’s Jessica Bouzas Maneiro, while Paul fought back from a slow start to defeat Canadian qualifier Gabriel Diallo.
Pegula, who has had to contend with injuries earlier this year, showcased her best form of the tournament so far. The Buffalo native was in command throughout the match, winning an impressive 89% of her first-serve points, hitting 13 winners, and breaking her opponent’s serve four times. The match, which took place on the Arthur Ashe Stadium court, lasted just 70 minutes, with Pegula sealing her win with a powerful serve that Maneiro was unable to return.
In her post-match interview, Pegula reflected on her performance, describing it as “solid.” She acknowledged that she didn’t do anything extraordinary but was pleased with her consistency, especially when Maneiro attempted to mount a comeback in the second set. Pegula adapted quickly to the challenge posed by an opponent she was unfamiliar with, making necessary adjustments to secure the win.
Maneiro, who struggled with six double faults and 29 unforced errors, was unable to match Pegula’s level. Pegula, now 30, is focused on winning her first Grand Slam title, particularly on home soil. After skipping the doubles competition at this year’s US Open to concentrate on her singles game, she has shown improved serving and strong defensive play.
Meanwhile, Tommy Paul overcame a tough start to defeat Diallo 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-1, 7-6(3). Paul initially struggled in the opening set, trading breaks with his 143rd-ranked opponent before Diallo clinched the set with an unreturnable serve. However, Paul quickly recovered, tightening up his game and taking control in the following sets. He saved the only break point Diallo had in the third set and ultimately secured the win with a forehand winner on his third match point.
Paul, who is part of a group of American players hoping to end the 21-year drought for U.S. men at major tournaments, acknowledged Diallo’s strong return game but was pleased with his own performance. He joins fellow Americans Frances Tiafoe, Brandon Nakashima, and Taylor Fritz in the fourth round.
