'We're learning and failing in front of a lot of people' - Jessica Pegula on navigating stress as a professional tennis player

Being a professional athlete means living your life in the public eye, and American tennis star Jessica Pegula has garnered considerable experience on how to deal with the ups and downs of her successful career.

Having turned pro in 2009, Pegula is now considered one of the veterans on the WTA Tour. The Buffalo native has accomplished several noteworthy feats on the circuit, including reach the World No.3 ranking in singles and No.1 in doubles.

Now seen as one of America's best players in recent years, Pegula reached her maiden Grand Slam final at last year's US Open. Although she lost to World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka, Pegula has remained a consistent threat on tour as she's firmly entrenched in the top 10 on the WTA Rankings.

Despite all her experience and travels on tour, Pegula has admitted to having moments of doubt during matches. In a recent interview with Women's Health Magazine, the 31-year old opened up on the need to be mentally strong when taking to the court under the bright lights.

Playing under pressure has helped her grow, says Pegula

"You’re learning life lessons of how to manage people, manage yourself, manage your emotions,” said Pegula. “We are learning and failing in front of a lot of people—or in front of the world, especially if you’re a top player. It makes you so much stronger.”

The World No.4 often travels with her coaching team and fitness trainers. However, Pegula has frequent travel companions in the form of her dogs. The American star and her husband founded A Lending Paw, a nonprofit that works with service dogs. Her love for furry friends is so great that she even partners with dog food brand, Maev.

"It’s tough to travel with pups, but some players have lovingly suggested adopting a dog together to bring on tour," said Pegula. “I’m like, ‘That’s an amazing idea. We need to do that!’ "

After winning the Bad Homburg Open title in June, Pegula has suffered a slump as she's lost in the opening rounds of Wimbledon and the DC Open. However, the 2023 WTA finalist will have a lot of points to defend if she hopes to replicate her final run at last year's US Open.