Jessica Pegula and the Top Americans Bow Out of WTA Finals
Locker Room
November 8, 2025
Jessica Pegula took out her frustration on her tennis racquet. She had missed out yet again.
Victory had seemed within her grasp, even against the in-form Elena Rybakina. The billionaire’s daughter knew she was good enough.
Points to break back in the second set went begging after she had won the opener. Chances to seize the initiative in the decider went the same way.
But ultimately Pegula appeared to be undone by a cruel net cord near the end. It saw Rybakina’s shot dribble over the ribbon and die – taking Jessica’s morale with it.
That single moment turned the tide, when the American had looked equal to the task of regaining control.
Pegula lost heart – and the former Wimbledon champion closed out 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 to continue her unbeaten run.
While Elena celebrated an impressive charge to the WTA year-end final, Pegula could only look hopefully towards 2026.
It was a similar story for her compatriot Amanda Anisimova, who was edged out by Aryna Sabalenka in the other semi-final.
And Coco Gauff didn’t make it out of the groups. She will at least look back fondly on a Grand Slam triumph in Paris this year.
Jessica Pegula, Coco Gauff and Amanda Anisimova will now set their sights on next year’s majors – including Wimbledon 2026!
And why shouldn’t one of them win the most prestigious tournament of them all on Centre Court?
Anisimova froze at the last Wimbledon showpiece. But she just beat her conqueror that day, Iga Swiatek in Riyadh. Amanda will be ready next time out at the All England Club.
Coco Gauff has never been past the fourth round at the big one on grass. But that could change at Wimbledon 2026. Coco is too good to fall short for much longer.
For now we should salute the seemingly unstoppable Sabalenka – beaten by Anisimova at Wimbledon only a few months ago.
Aryna saw off Amanda 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 to set up a scintillating final showdown with Rybakina.
Something has to give. Sabalenka’s desire is immense. Rybakina hasn’t lost since reaching Riyadh.
Perhaps not even Elena’s brilliant serve and nerveless composure can deny Sabalenka this WTA title. We shall soon see.
But we can be sure the Americans will be waiting to bounce back in 2026. Anisimova and Gauff will only get better. Pegula has a year or two more at the very top.
Jessica Pegula, Amanda Anisimova and Coco Gauff could all go deep at Wimbledon 2026.
But women’s tennis is impossible to predict – and fiercely competitive. The WTA Finals have reminded us of that enduring fact.
Come to Wimbledon 2026 and watch the women hit new heights! They truly take the breath away each year on historic Centre Court.
Be part of the glamour. We’re waiting to hear from you.