Interview Pegula: ‘We just got a new puppy in the house’

As a top-5 player, spotlights are no stranger to Jessica Pegula. But deep down, she enjoys the quiet life more. That is why the American was also eager to return to the serene Libéma Open.

How are you doing physically? You’ve been out for two months with a rib injury.
‘I feel fine. I didn’t want to return too soon, because of the full summer with the Olympics and the switch of court types that comes with it. I chose this tournament for my comeback because I knew from previous experience that I really like it. I also played my first WTA match on grass here in my career.’

Tennis players travel all over the world. What do you see as something typically Dutch?
‘Mayonnaise with fries! I remember that very well. I had never had that before in my life, before I first came here. It actually went down very well and I still eat it that way. I do marvel that you really don’t get ketchup with the fries anywhere here as standard. That’s unthinkable in the US.’

What feeling do your first grass steps of the year always evoke?
‘Unless you might be Roger Federer, I don’t think it’s the case that anyone feels comfortable on this type of court right away. You have to remain patient to deal with things like irregular bumps. Because I performed well on grass last year, I am now starting this part of the season with more confidence.’

What is the best thing that has happened to you outside of tennis this year?
‘Simply being at home is somethin g I enjoy and my injury has allowed me to spend a bit more time with my husband and family than usual. We just got a new puppy in the house, so that’s really nice. That extra time at home makes me feel pretty fresh now and hopefully that will help me the rest of the year.’

If you were allowed to organise a picnic here cosy by the lake, what should be served anyway and which guests should not be missed?
‘For the food, I then think at least of a charcuterie board. I would then like to share this with my tennis friends Madison Keys, Jennifer Brady and Desirae Krawczyk. We have a pretty active group chat, so I’m sure we would have a great time together then. There’s always plenty to chat about!’