Jessica Pegula heads into the Miami Open final tonight looking to win the WTA 1000 event for the first time in her career. The world No.4 beat the unseeded Alexandra Eala to set up a clash with Aryna Sabalenka, having previously ended the hopes of Emma Raducanu in the last eight.
The 31-year-old’s father Terry, is famously the owner of NFL side the Buffalo Bills, reportedly worth around £5.3billion. However, Pegula has cemented herself as a tennis star in her own right, reaching the final of the 2024 US Open before being beaten by the very opponent she’s out to topple tonight. The American continues to seek her maiden Slam title, although it’s not just tennis that consumes her hectic lifestyle.
Express Sport brings you the lowdown on the star’s interests away from the court…..
Animal enthusiast
Along with her husband Taylor Gahagen, Pegula has three dogs – Maddie, Dexter and Tucker. The animal-loving couple aren’t just invested in their own pets, though. Together, they’ve founded a charity called ‘A Lending Paw’, which helps rescue dogs find new owners.
Business venture
While the business portfolio of her father is well documented, few know about Pegula’s personal venture. She has used her estimated net worth of £11.5million to found Ready 24, a skincare company, Ready 24. The company was created in 2017, and its products include a vitamin C cleanser, lavender mist and moisturisers, which cost between £20 and £30.
Her own NFL dream
As well as the Buffalo Bills, Pegula Snr also owns the NHL outfit the Buffalo Sabres. It’s possible that both franchises could one day end up in the hands of the seven-time WTA Tour winner.
She has previously admitted she harbours an interest in taking over once her dad, 74, is prepared to hand over the reins. However, that transition won’t come any time soon, with Pegula admitting she has much she wants to achieve in professional tennis.
Tennis earnings and critics
Pegula isn’t just subsidised by family wealth. She has made more than £10million in prize money and endorsements from the game and victory in Miami tonight will boost her income by a further £868,000.
She’s also not bothered at those who take aim at her for her lavish income. She previously said: “I can’t really change their minds. I’ve worked really hard (in tennis) and I definitely wouldn’t have gotten here if it wasn’t for that.”
Content Source: www.express.co.uk