Jessica Pegula admits Sabalenka and Rybakina are ‘the ones to beat’ after Indian Wells

Speaking ahead of the Miami Open, Pegula admitted that many of her biggest recent defeats have come against the top players in the game.

“It’s been tough,” she said. “A lot of the big matches I’ve lost have been to them or to Coco [Gauff].”

Despite that, Pegula pointed to clear improvements in her own game. “I’ve been more aggressive, serving better, and working on my movement and strategy to find ways to compete with them.”

Still, she was clear about the current hierarchy. “They’re playing amazing tennis. Right now, based on results and the finals they’ve been reaching, they’re the two best players in the world.”

Pegula also highlighted the physical challenge they pose. “They’re tall, powerful players with big serves, which can be frustrating, but I still believe I can compete and keep pushing them.”

Miami draw could set up rematches with both rivals

Pegula enters Miami with a solid record this season, including her title in Dubai, and receives a bye into the second round.

She will face either Francesca Jones or Venus Williams, with a likely path that includes Leylah Fernandez in the third round and Ekaterina Alexandrova in the fourth.

A quarter-final clash with Rybakina is currently projected — offering a chance for immediate revenge after Indian Wells.

If she advances further, Pegula could then meet Sabalenka in the semi-finals, setting up another high-stakes encounter against the world number one.

Historically, Pegula holds a 3-5 record against Rybakina, though she has lost their last three meetings. Against Sabalenka, the challenge has been even greater, with the Belarusian leading their head-to-head 9-3.

With both rivals in top form, Pegula knows the task ahead is significant — but remains confident she is “right there” and close to turning those tight battles in her favour.