Pegula vs Muchova: US Open Semi-Final Analysis
Outplayed for nearly 10 games, Pegula hit an on-the-run underspin forehand to avoid falling a set and 0-3 down. After it, the match changed completely.
cover 📸 source: US Open instagram
Jessica Pegula stormed back to defeat Karolina Muchova 1-6, 6-4, 6-2 and reach her first career Major final. To earn the chance to fulfill a childhood dream at age 30, Pegula had to overcome a nightmarish semi-final start.
For nearly 10 games, Muchova played magical tennis and dominated the match completely. With Pegula serving at 1-6 0-2 30/40, Muchova was a point away from a commanding set and double-break lead.
Pegula, at risk of losing her serve for a 4th straight time, was in desperate need of something special. She engineered this match-saving, on-the-run underspin forehand.
📺 source: Eurosport / Max
After the match, Pegula said it was lucky. Both players agreed it caused a big momentum swing.
It drew the first Muchova volley miss of the match.
It was the first net point Muchova lost, after previously going 9-for-9.
Eventually, it turned into the first return game Muchova failed to convert into a break after reaching break point.
It began a run of 4 straight games for Pegula. She would stretch it to 9 games won in 11, taking her to an insurmountable 3-0 lead in the deciding set.
What changed in the match after Pegula’s special shot?