BEIJING — In a thrilling match, Jessica Pegula became the third American to secure a spot in the semifinals of the China Open, overcoming fellow countrywoman Emma Navarro on Friday.
Despite faltering with six set points in the first set, the fifth-seeded Pegula roared back to seize victory with scores of 6-7 (2), 6-2, 6-1.
“I reminded myself to keep my cool,” Pegula shared. “I focused on staying relaxed and letting go of the pressure to stick to the game plan. This mindset helped me play more freely.”
Next up for Pegula is Linda Noskova, who smoothly advanced by defeating Britain’s Sonay Kartal with a score of 6-3, 6-4.
At just 20 years old, Noskova has etched her name in history as the youngest Czech player to reach a WTA 1000 semifinal since the format’s inception in 2009.
The other semifinal will feature a captivating clash between defending champion Coco Gauff and third-seeded Amanda Anisimova in an all-American showdown.
