Jessica Pegula claims that “putting the pressure on” while her tennis rivals are practicing is her secret way of getting onto the courts earlier. The US Open star, who has a net worth of almost £15million and is due to inherit a whopping £5.5billion fortune, has detailed the tactic she uses to get onto the practice courts on time.
The 31-year-old is set to face Mayar Sherif in the first round of the US Open, and will likely be getting in some final hits in New York as she aims for his first Grand Slam title. The American came agonisingly close in 2024, reaching the final but was defeated 7-5, 7-5 by world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka to the trophy. However, Pegula’s interesting way to get her practice shots in on time could be the difference maker ahead of her showdown in the final major tournament of the season.
Speaking to Tennis World USA, the incredibly rich tennis star believes that the trick to making sure people exit court quick is by placing some tension as you wait for your turn.
Pegula said: “I always kind of like to put the pressure on a little bit, because I feel like there are maybe some players that maybe aren’t paying attention or don’t know and they kind of linger.
“Sometimes when it’s tough to get courts, you’re like, ‘Okay, it’s my time. You need to get off.'”
However, while this decision could lead Pegula into some uncomfortable situations with her tennis rivals, the star claims that she is yet to have a showdown with any opponent while using this tactic.
Pegula added: “But in my experience I have never really had too many awkward encounters. Some girls or guys even are pretty chill.
“Like, ‘No, take your time, I’m still waiting for someone. You want to hit one more?’ Maybe you ended on a bad shot. They are like, ‘Go ahead, hit one more good one before you end.'”
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The tennis star will be hoping that practice makes perfect as she heads into the Grand Slam this week, with her first round match-up slated for just after 1am UK time on Sunday night in the Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Speaking to CNN Sports during her mixed doubles journey with British tennis star Jack Draper – which ended at the semi-final stage thanks to Iga Swiatek and Casper Ruud – Pegula says theres no place like home at the tournament. She added: “I love playing in New York, it’s so much fun.
“The energy there is really honestly unmatched, especially being an American and being able to play there. And not only play there, but have good results there and being able to go deep is something that is unlike anything else, being in New York City. So that’s always what I look forward to.
“It can be very hectic, but at the same time, it’s fun and rewarding and I just feel like every time I’m there, it’s just something special. I grew up going to that tournament and watching as a kid, so being able to play there on the biggest stages is just the best part about it.”
Content Source: www.express.co.uk