Jessica Pegula revealed her plans to connect with fans by showcasing her dry sense of humor and down-to-earth personality.
In the competitive world of professional tennis, it is not uncommon for athletes to have their game face on while they perform on the court but also when they step into the press room. However, Jessica Pegula believes that showing her true personality through humor is the key to attracting fans.
Pegula, who also talked about her desire to inspire future generations, doesn't shy away from joking around and one of her most iconic moments came when she was drinking beer during the press conference. Now, she talked about that moment in an interview with Roland Garros, saying:
"I've always had, I think, a good, kind of dry sense of humour. But it's fun, I think that people see those moments as just maybe myself. I didn't think I'd get as crazy of a reaction as I did. So, I think it was cool to see people kind of appreciate that even as athletes, we're still human, like everyday people in a way."
"I like to show that with my humour. I think it's important to show your personality because I think that's what attracts fans. I think it's also easier to just be yourself, in person and on social media."
One of the biggest achievements of Pegula's career came last year at the Guadalajara Open, which was a temporary WTA 1000 event, and she was the player that handled new conditions the best and lifted the trophy.
"Winning Guadalajara was obviously a big, big step for me. I wanted to win a title last year and I managed to do it on the last tournament of the calendar year, but going into this year everything resets."
Now, when she's a stable Top 10 member, Pegula has her sight set on the biggest wins and winning tournaments. Although she couldn't win any in 2023 yet, the American won 27 of 34 matches that she played and things are certainly trending into the right direction.
"I think my goals are always kind of the same, to play every match the same way, to go out and just win the match in front of me, but at the same time having the confidence knowing I can go in and win tournaments as well. Hopefully I showed that last year but I think maybe a little bit more confidence in the bigger moments this year will really help me."