‘Probably Going To Be Worse’ – Jessica Pegula Reacts to Alexandra Eala’s Popularity Ahead of DC Open Final
· Yahoo Sports
Jessica Pegula and Alexandra Eala have set up a blockbuster final at the 2026 Mubadala DC Open. Ahead of their highly anticipated title clash, Pegula shared her thoughts on Eala’s progress and the incredible backing she receives from Filipino fans, while reflecting on their Miami Open battle from last year.
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What Jessica Pegula Said About Facing Alexandra Eala in the DC Open Final
After triumphing over Magdalena Fręch and Anna Kalinskaya, top seed Pegula secured a commanding 7-5, 6-4 win over No. 4 seed Diana Shnaider to book her spot in the DC Open final.
The American is set to lock horns with Eala, who defeated Naomi Osaka 6-4, 6-2 to reach the biggest final of her career. The final will mark their second meeting on the tour after Pegula claimed a hard-fought 7-6(3), 5-7, 6-3 victory in the semifinals of the 2025 Miami Open.
Speaking to the press after her semifinal win, Pegula reflected on the overwhelming support Eala received during their Miami Open clash, revealing that she was surprised by how strongly the crowd favored the Filipina. She added that she expects the atmosphere to be even more one-sided in the DC Open final since Eala’s fan base has only become “crazier.”
“I remember in Miami. This was before people knew her as much. I’m assuming tomorrow it’s probably going to be worse. I don’t know if there’s more Filipino here compared to Miami, but Miami I was just, like, ‘Who are these people? What is going on? I’m an American. I’m in Miami Open. We’re in the semis. I live in South Florida,'” Pegula said.
“I was just, like, ‘Where are these people coming from?’ Like, I don’t understand. I was just so confused. Now obviously looking back, it’s gotten even crazier, and it makes complete sense now,” she added.
Pegula also braced herself for a “tough” battle in the final, acknowledging that Eala has made a lot of progress since their meeting last year.
“I think she’s gained a lot of experience and confidence since last time I played her. I think last time I played her, everything was very new. Now she’s got her feet under her. A little bit more time on tour, a lot of different things. So, it’s going to be a tough match,” she said.
Alexandra Eala will be aiming to win her maiden tour-level title, while Jessica Pegula will be on the hunt for her second DC Open title when they face off in the final. Following the summit clash, both Pegula and Eala will head to Toronto for the WTA 1000 Canadian Open.
This article originally appeared on Pro Football Network.