MELBOURNE — Jessica Pegula etched her name into Australian Open history on Thursday, powering into the women’s singles semifinals for the first time with a commanding 6-2, 7-6(1) victory over fellow American Amanda Anisimova in the quarterfinals.
World No. 6 Pegula delivered a masterclass over 1 hour and 35 minutes, showcasing ruthless precision and depth from both wings. This triumph marks her third Grand Slam semifinal overall and her debut in the last four at Melbourne Park, outside of her US Open successes.
Next up for the American is a blockbuster clash with Elena Rybakina, the 2022 Wimbledon champion, who has been in ominous form.
Pegula seized control early, breaking Anisimova twice to pocket the opener with ease. The second set turned into a thriller, with Anisimova elevating her aggressive baseline game to force a tiebreak. But Pegula was unstoppable there, reeling off seven straight points with blistering returns and unerring serves.
Anisimova faltered under pressure, her errors compounding as Pegula’s pace proved decisive. This win extends Pegula’s perfect 4-0 head-to-head record against Anisimova and represents her eighth consecutive Grand Slam victory over a compatriot.
Remarkably, Pegula became the first American woman in over three decades to defeat three fellow countrywomen in a single Australian Open, having earlier ousted McCartney Kessler and defending champion Madison Keys.
‘I feel amazing,’ Pegula said post-match. ‘I’ve struggled to go deep in majors outside the US Open, but this tournament feels special. The conditions suit me perfectly, and I’ve been playing some of my best tennis here. Can’t wait for the semis.’
Pegula’s run has electrified fans, positioning her as a genuine contender for her first Grand Slam title. With Rybakina looming, the stakes couldn’t be higher.