The number 1 in the world Iga Swiatekended up crying this Friday after losing to Jessica Pegula in the semifinals of the United Cup in Sydney.
The Polish player was defeated by his American rival 6-2, 6-2 in just one hour, less than two weeks before the Australian Open.
The third-ranked player in the world, Jessica Pegula made an early push, taking the first seven points, before closing out the first set in 39 minutes and breaking early in the second to claim victory.
It also gave the United States a 1-0 lead in the mixed team tournament.
It was a huge disappointment for Iga Swiatek, who has beaten the American four times in 2022 and was the favorite after an impressive last season.
“I have played against him a lot, in many different conditions, but it seems to me that they are clearly the fastest. I think I did a good job of playing aggressively, serving smartly and returning well,” said Jessica Pegula after the match.
Pegula gave the United States the first point of the mixed team tournament (1-0) before Frances Tiafoe, number 19 in the ATP ranking, gave the Americans the advantage with an easy 6-3, 6-3 victory over in Kacper Zuk (Hindi . 245).
“I think I’m playing the best tennis of my life, I’m having a good time on the court,” Tiafoe said.
The Americans need just one more win to reach the final. On Saturday, Taylor Fritz and Madison Keys will face Hubert Hurkacz and Magda Linette respectively, ahead of a potential doubles match to decide the two countries in the event of a 2-2 tie.
In the other semifinal, Greece will face Italy.
Source: La Verdad
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