Pegula makes quick work of Li to become first US Open quarter-finalist
Jessica Pegula, the US Open’s 2024 runner-up, advanced to the quarter-finals with a dominant straight-sets victory over compatriot Ann Li
Jessica Pegula, US Open 2025 | © Zuma / PsNewz
Jessica Pegula became the first player to secure a spot in the US Open women’s singles quarter-finals on Sunday, overpowering fellow American Ann Li in a dominant 6-1, 6-2 victory that took just 54 minutes. The win marks a significant return to form for the world No. 4, who was the US Open runner-up in 2024 but had a difficult 2025 season, apart from her titles at Bad Hombourg and Charleston.
Pegula’s performance was a masterclass in controlled aggression. She hit 12 winners and consistently put pressure on Li’s serve, converting six of her break-point opportunities, while Li managed to convert only one. On her own serve, Pegula won 85% of her first-serve points, a key factor in the lopsided scoreline.
“I felt really comfortable moving today. I felt like today I started off really well and I just wanted to keep executing that,” Pegula said in her post-match interview, reflecting on her efficiency.
The victory moves Pegula into her first Grand Slam quarter-final of the 2025 season after a disappointing first-round exit at Wimbledon. Her 2024 run at Flushing Meadows saw her reach her first major final, where she was defeated by Aryna Sabalenka. With this convincing win, Pegula has now won every match in this tournament in straight sets, dropping just 17 games, her lowest total to reach the last eight at any major.
