Jessica Pegula Advances to U.S. Open Fourth Round with Dominant Performance

Jessica Pegula showcased strong serving and defense to claim a 6-3, 6-3 victory over Spain's Jessica Bouzas Maneiro in the U.S. Open third round. The 30-year-old American, who has overcome injuries earlier this year, won 89% of her first serve points and relied on consistency to seal the win.

Jessica Pegula's powerful serving and unyielding defense led to a decisive 6-3, 6-3 win over Spain's Jessica Bouzas Maneiro in the U.S. Open third round on Saturday.

The sixth-seeded American, who has battled injuries earlier this year, showcased her best performance of the tournament to date, winning an impressive 89% of her first serve points, hitting 13 winners, and breaking serve four times. Pegula clinched the match by serving an unreturnable ball, advancing in just 70 minutes on Arthur Ashe Stadium court.

'I just played solid,' Pegula shared in a post-match interview. 'I didn't do anything extraordinary or terrible. I was just very consistent. Even when she got back into the second set, I found the energy to close it out quickly, which I'm proud of.'

The unseeded Bouzas Maneiro could not keep up with Pegula's pace, struggling with six double faults and 29 unforced errors. Pegula said she had to make quick adjustments against her unfamiliar opponent, especially with the roof closed, which affected playing conditions.

Pegula, who missed this year's French Open to recover from injuries and faced an early exit at Wimbledon, recently triumphed at the Canadian Open. The Buffalo native hopes to win her first Grand Slam on home soil and has prioritized her singles game by forgoing doubles at this year's tournament. She will next face either Diana Shnaider or Sara Errani.

(With inputs from agencies.)