In a dramatic turn of events at the Libéma Open in Den Bosch, Serbian tennis player Krunic delivered a stunning performance to defeat top-seeded American Jessica Pegula.
The match, held on June 13, 2024, saw Krunić triumph in a hard-fought battle, proving that she remains a formidable force on the court despite facing numerous challenges in recent years.
Krunić, currently ranked 105th in the world, showcased her skill and determination, defeating Pegula 6-4, 5-7, 6-3 in a match that lasted nearly two and a half hours.
This victory marks one of the most significant upsets of the tournament and highlights Krunić’s resilience and potential to compete against the world’s best players.
A Determined Comeback Krunić has had a turbulent career marked by both impressive victories and challenging setbacks. Injuries and inconsistent form have often impeded her progress, but her performance in Den Bosch underscores her tenacity and passion for the sport. After her victory, Krunić spoke with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism. “I still have a lot to give, she said.
This win means a lot to me, and it’s a reminder that with hard work and belief, anything is possible.
Her road to this remarkable victory was anything but easy. Facing Pegula, who is ranked 4th in the world and known for her powerful baseline game and strategic prowess, Krunić had to employ every aspect of her game. She utilized her agility and defensive skills to counter Pegula’s aggressive play, turning defense into offense at crucial moments.
The Match in Detail the first set saw Krunić take an early lead, breaking Pegula’s serve twice to secure a 6-4 win. Her precision and variety in shot-making kept Pegula on the defensive, unable to establish her rhythm.
However, the second set proved more challenging. Pegula fought back, demonstrating why she is one of the top players in the world. The American’s persistence paid off as she broke Krunić serve late in the set, winning 7-5 and leveling the match.
The decisive third set was a test of mental and physical endurance for both players. Krunić, showing remarkable composure under pressure, managed to break Pegula’s serve early. She maintained her lead with consistent, high-quality play, ultimately closing out the set 6-3. The Serbian’s victory was met with enthusiastic applause from the crowd, who appreciated the high level of tennis displayed.
Looking Ahead This win propels Krunić into the next round of the tournament, where she will face another tough opponent. Her victory over Pegula is not only a testament to her current form but also a significant boost to her confidence as she aims to climb back up the rankings.
For Jessica Pegula, this loss is a setback, but she remains a strong contender in the upcoming tournaments. Known for her resilience and ability to bounce back from defeats, Pegula will undoubtedly analyze this match to prepare for future challenges.
