Jessica Pegula defeated Emma Navarro in a thrilling all-American quarterfinal, securing a 3-6, 6-4, 6-3 victory to set up a highly anticipated semifinal clash with Aryna Sabalenka.
Published On 9 Sep 2026
Jessica Pegula has secured her place in the US Open semifinals, grinding out a hard-fought 3-6, 6-4, 6-3 victory over compatriot Emma Navarro to set up a blockbuster showdown with defending champion Aryna Sabalenka.
The third-seeded American required two hours and twenty minutes to overcome Navarro on Arthur Ashe Stadium, rallying after an early break in the third set during a tense, baseline-heavy battle that featured nine breaks of serve.
“It was really tough,” Pegula reflected post-match. “It was physical, humid. I wasn’t exactly serving my best, and I was fighting a lot of demons out there today.”
The win marked Pegula’s fifth consecutive victory over Navarro, who has been on a strong comeback trail after an extended hiatus to focus on her health, claiming her first title in over a year at Strasbourg in May.
As a two-time champion this season, Pegula was among the select group of contenders who arrived at Flushing Meadows with a realistic shot at displacing Sabalenka from the top of the world rankings.
However, the head-to-head history between the two does not favor Pegula; Sabalenka defeated her in the 2024 final and again in last year’s semifinals en route to her second US Open crown.
For Pegula, a deep run to her first major title would be required to seriously challenge for the world number one ranking.
Yet, the battle for the top spot might be decided before the two even face off. Second-ranked Elena Rybakina has the opportunity to claim the number one ranking on Wednesday, provided she defeats China’s Zheng Qinwen in their quarterfinal match.
