Jessica Pegula secured her place in the finals of the 2025 Miami Open after a hard-fought battle against rising star Alex Eala, winning the match 7-6 (3), 5-7, 6-3. The semifinal clash, which took place past midnight in Miami, showcased Pegula's resilience and skill against a formidable opponent who has made waves throughout the tournament.
The match began with Eala, currently ranked No. 140, making a strong start. She quickly gained momentum, taking an early lead in the first set. However, Pegula, the No. 4 seed, fought back, forcing the set into a tiebreak. In the tiebreak, Pegula displayed her experience, winning 7-6 (3) to take the first set. Eala, known for her aggressive play and left-handed shots, didn’t back down, and her determination paid off in the second set.
In the second set, Eala rallied impressively, overcoming a 3-1 deficit to take the lead and eventually win the set 7-5. This marked the first set that Eala dropped in the entire tournament, having previously defeated three Grand Slam champions to reach this stage. The crowd, filled with Filipino fans, erupted as Eala celebrated her hard-fought victory in the second set.
Reflecting on the match, Pegula said, “I’m so tired. So, so tired. She [Eala] is really good. Goes for her shots, takes the ball early. Being a lefty is always tricky, competes really well. She’s beaten a lot of top players this week.” This acknowledgment from Pegula highlights the respect she has for her opponent, who has proven to be a rising force in women’s tennis.
The third set was a test of endurance and skill as both players battled for every point. Pegula regained her composure and took control of the match, ultimately sealing her victory with a decisive 6-3 in the final set. Throughout the match, Pegula showcased her powerful game, delivering six aces and 48 winners while committing 27 unforced errors. Her ability to convert four out of nine break points and save five out of six against her was crucial in her victory.
As Pegula prepares for the final, she will face Aryna Sabalenka, who advanced after a dominant 6-2, 6-2 victory over Jasmine Paolini in the other semifinal. Sabalenka’s quick win, taking just 71 minutes, sets the stage for an exciting final between two of the best players in the tournament.
This match not only marks Pegula’s third appearance in the Miami Open finals but also serves as a testament to her growth as a player. The 30-year-old has been a consistent performer on the WTA tour and is looking to capture her first Miami Open title. With her combination of experience and skill, Pegula will be a formidable opponent for Sabalenka.
Meanwhile, Eala’s journey in the Miami Open has been nothing short of remarkable. The 19-year-old has captured the attention of the tennis world with her impressive victories, including a stunning upset over World No. 2 Iga Swiatek, winning 6-2, 7-5 in the quarterfinals. This performance has not only solidified her status as a rising star but is also expected to propel her into the Top 100 of the WTA rankings.
The Miami Open has been a significant platform for Eala, who is the first Filipino player to reach the semifinals of a WTA 1000 tournament. Her success has ignited excitement among fans in the Philippines and beyond, with many eager to see how her career unfolds in the coming years.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on the final showdown between Pegula and Sabalenka, promising a thrilling conclusion to the Miami Open. Fans are eager to see if Pegula can harness her experience and resilience to claim victory or if Sabalenka will continue her dominant form and capture the title.
With the stakes high and both players in top form, the final is set to be an electrifying encounter that tennis enthusiasts won’t want to miss. As the tournament draws to a close, the Miami Open has once again proven to be a stage for both established stars and emerging talents, showcasing the bright future of women’s tennis.
