Jessica Pegula is set for a high-stakes third-round clash at the US Open against two-time Australian Open champion Victoria Azarenka. Pegula, the No. 4 seed and last year's runner-up, is aiming for another deep run in New York, a familiar stage where she's reached at least the third round for the sixth consecutive year.
Pegula's 2025 season has been a mix of highs and lows. She started strong with three title wins but faced early exits at Wimbledon and several North American hard-court tournaments leading up to the US Open. However, her dominant performances in the first two rounds at Flushing Meadows, with straight-set victories over Mayar Sherif and Anna Blinkova, signal a return to form.
Azarenka, currently ranked outside the top 100, had a tougher path to the third round. She needed two hours to overcome American qualifier Hina Inoue in the first round but followed up with a more convincing win over Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova. Despite not being at her peak, the 36-year-old Belarusian remains a formidable competitor, especially in extended baseline rallies.
Pegula vs. Azarenka: Head-to-Head
The head-to-head record between Pegula and Azarenka is evenly split at 3-3. Pegula won their most recent encounter on clay in Charleston in 2024 in three sets.
What to Expect
While Azarenka's competitiveness will ensure long and physical rallies, Pegula's steadier baseline game and overall sharper form this season suggest a straight-set victory for the American. Pegula's backhand and effective return of serve will be key factors in dictating the match.
How to Watch
The match between Jessica Pegula and Victoria Azarenka is scheduled to start around 1:45 PM at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Part of the match will be broadcast on ESPN, and the broadcast will also be available on the ESPN app and website.
Pegula herself admitted, "Vika is always really tough... when she's on, she's probably one of the best baseliners we've ever had, especially in the women's game that I can remember." This sets the stage for a potentially thrilling encounter.