Pegula defeats Ruse in US Open first round

Jessica Pegula overcame early nerves to defeat Romania's Elena-Gabriela Ruse 6-3, 6-2 in the first round of the US Open on Sunday, August 30, 2026. The world No. 3, who is the highest-ranked American in either draw, opened the tournament's main draw action on Arthur Ashe Stadium in her pursuit of a first Grand Slam title. Pegula, 32, admitted to feeling significant pressure as she stepped onto the court. "I was so nervous today," she said. "Always the first round of a slam." The nerves were evident in a tight opening set where Ruse saved eight break points in a marathon third game.