Jessica Pegula was defeated by Aryna Sabalenka in the final of the Miami Open.
Jessica Pegula got her revenge on Aryna Sabalenka after her close friend claimed a 7-5 6-2 victory over her in the Miami Open final. The 31-year-old American came close to winning on home soil, losing in a repeat of the US Open final, but did get something out of the match.
A cheerful Sabalenka was conducting her media duties and had been speaking to Tennis Channel to analyse her victory. However, that interview was gatecrashed by Pegula, who only had one thing in her mind.
That was to steal Sabalenka’s drink, a margarita which had been dubbed ‘Aryna’s Marg-Aryna’ and was sat in front of the newly-crowned champion. Pegula had little concern, however, and went straight for the beverage and drank it in front of Sabalenka.
The Belarussian star could only laugh and then toasted the runner-up with another nearby drink, while Pegula exited the desk giving a glowing recommendation of the drink.
That’s why I like this girl,” Sabalenka commented. “She’s the best. Can I have another one? Can I please?”
The exchange was another glimpse into Sabalenka and Pegula’s strong bond, with the pair trading compliments in the immediate aftermath of their final.
The reigning US Open champion jokingly offered to split the rewards of winning in Miami with the runner-up, saying: “First of all Jess, I’m so sorry, for real. If I could share the trophy with someone, trophy, prize money, points, everything – I would definitely share it with you. I’m sorry for that.
“You’re an incredible player, you always push me so hard to play my best. You’re a great player. Congrats to you and your team on an incredible couple of weeks. I always enjoy playing against you, it’s always great battles, great matches, great level of tennis.
Continue doing what you’re doing and I’m pretty sure we’re going to play many more finals. I’m not sure about the results because I honestly don’t want to lose in the finals, it sucks I know! But I always enjoy playing against you. You’re an incredible person, player, thank you so much. Wow that was long, you see how much I like this girl!”
Pegula returned the kind words in her on-court interview, replying: “Congrats Aryna to you and your team. Three finals (she has lost to Sabalenka). I really don’t wanna like you right now but you’re the best player in the world for a reason.
“You keep pushing and challenging everyone to get better. Congrats for an amazing couple of weeks here. Great tournament at Indian Wells too. The last month of tennis you’ve been able to play is amazing.”