‘Proud’ Barbora Krejcikova takes a giant step in the WTA Finals after victory over Jessica Pegula

Barbora Krejcikova ends Jessica Pegula's hopes of a WTA Finals semifinals place after a straight-set win in the second round-robin match.

‘Proud’ Barbora Krejcikova takes a giant step in the WTA Finals after victory over Jessica Pegula

Barbora Krejcikova (via X)

Barbora Krejcikova took a giant leap at the WTA Finals after beating American Jessica Pegula in straight sets in the second Group match. The Czech Republic star ended any chance of last year’s runners-up Pegula reaching the semifinals of the tournament.

Coming into the tie, Krejcikova had won just one of her last six singles matches. But, she produced a dominant display that gave Pegula no chance of a comeback. Indeed, the Wimbledon champion squandered a 6-4, 3-0 lead against Iga Swiatek in her opening match on Sunday (November 3), but made sure there was no repeat scenario on Tuesday (November 5).

YouTube video

After over half an hour into the match, Krejcikova looked comfortable after winning the first set 6-3. She continued on the same momentum and was dominant on serve, notching up 11 aces, while Pegula managed only one break serve. The clinical Czech star struck a solid 22 winners to 32 unforced errors, winning the match 6-3, 6-3 in an hour and nine minutes.

The World No.13 became the lowest-ranked player to win a match at the WTA Finals since World No.17 Magdalena Maleeva in 2002. During her on-court interview, Krejcikova revealed that she was pleased with how she fought for each point.

I definitely enjoyed it very much. I’m really pleased with how I played today. It’s nice to get the win. I was fighting for every ball. I felt I really have to play my best tennis. I tried to do that and be talk to solid and put as many balls back to the other side as I could. I’m super happy.

Barbora Krejcikova said

In addition, this was Krejcikova’s second victory over Pegula, taking her head-to-head record against the American to 2-3. Krejcikova will face another American, Coco Gauff, in her last round-robin match.

Barbora Krejcikova privileged to play in her season-ending Finals, thanks to new WTA rule

Barbora Krejcikova is competing in her first WTA Finals singles of her career. Despite being ranked World No.13, the 28-year-old qualified for the event thanks to a new rule introduced by the WTA that gives priority to those who have won a Grand Slam this season while maintaining a ranking between 9 and 20.

Barbora Krejcikova
Barbora Krejcikova (via Imago)

She was favored to qualify for the event above Emma Navarro, who is ranked World No.8. After her win against Jessica Pegula, she revealed she was proud of her accomplishments this season.

I’m definitely proud. I had some very hard parts of the season. Especially winning Wimbledon was something indescribable. To be here is a huge privilege. To be playing in final 8.. it’s very nice to get the win and still be part of the event.

Barbora Krejcikova said

Meanwhile, Krejcikova winning the Wimbledon championship was a big surprise this season. She claimed the WTA Finals doubles title in 2021 and will be looking forward to becoming the singles champion in Riyadh.