World number one Iga Swiatek’s remarkable 37-match winning streak came to an abrupt end on Wednesday as she was stunned by American Jessica Pegula in the quarterfinals of the US Open. Pegula, ranked sixth in the world, delivered a dominant performance to secure a 6-2, 6-4 victory, advancing to her first-ever Grand Slam semifinal.
Swiatek, who had not lost a match since February, appeared out of sorts from the outset. Pegula seized control of the match early, breaking Swiatek’s serve twice in the opening set to take a commanding 6-2 lead. The second set proved to be more competitive, but Pegula remained unyielding, breaking Swiatek’s serve once again to secure the victory.
Pegula’s victory marks a significant milestone in her career. The 28-year-old American has consistently performed well at the Grand Slams, reaching the quarterfinals of the Australian Open and Wimbledon earlier this year. However, she had never advanced beyond that stage until now.
In the semifinals, Pegula will face Karolina Muchova of the Czech Republic, who upset Simona Halep in the quarterfinals. Muchova, ranked 20th in the world, is a former Wimbledon semifinalist and will be looking to make another deep run at a Grand Slam.
Swiatek’s defeat is a major upset and opens up the women’s draw at the US Open. With the top seed eliminated, several other players will be eyeing an opportunity to claim the title. Pegula, Muchova, and other contenders will now battle it out for a place in the final and a chance to lift the trophy.
