Pegula defeats Kessler to win ATX Open title

AUSTIN: Top-seeded Jessica Pegula claimed her seventh career singles title on Sunday, defeating fellow American and No. 5 seed McCartney Kessler 7-5, 6-2 in the ATX Open final in Austin, Texas.

Pegula showcased her dominance by converting six of 10 break points and wrapping up the match in just 83 minutes. Kessler struggled with her serve, committing four double faults and winning only four of her 10 service games.

The match marked a rare all-American final on U.S. soil, the first since Sloane Stephens defeated Madison Keys in the 2017 U.S. Open final. Kessler led 4-2 in the first set, but Pegula stormed back to win five of the next six games. After dropping the first game of the second set, Pegula took control, winning four straight games to seal the victory.

The triumph is Pegula’s fourth title in the past 18 months, while Kessler, who has two career titles, continues her rise on the WTA Tour.(Reuters)