Home/Tennis

via Imago

via Imago

The tennis world is known for the tough competition that players face on different tours. Sometimes, besides the levels of high competitiveness, players present gestures of love and respect that lift up the hearts of the fans. The Korea Open 2023 presented a great pack of entertainment to the fans before finally coming to an end. Concluding with an immense face-off between the American Jessica Pegula and the Chinese rising star Yuan Yue, the tournament became a great hit.

The arena witnessed a peak note of cheering as Yuan and Jessica tussled for the Korea Open title, but the events that happened after the final match took most of the highlight. Yuan, being so close to winning her first WTA title, presented a genuine spirit of fair play with her words of appreciation for the American. Fans caught a moment of great interest as the 25-year-old pointed to the brighter side of her opponent.

Yuan Yue highlights the lifting qualities of Jessica Pegula

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

The Korea Open marked a special moment for the 25-year-old Chinese Yuan Yue as she made it to the top 4 and the finals of a WTA tournament for the first time in her career. Despite facing a disappointing defeat against the American Jessica Pegula, she didn’t seem to be frustrated. Her actions after the event created a perfect example for the enthusiasts of how a true sportsman deals with a loss and cherishes every moment along with respecting co-players.

ALSO READ: Emotions Take Centre Stage for American Beauty Jessica Pegula as WTA Korea Open Success Prompts the 29-Year-Old to Revisit Her Roots

After the match, Yuan Yue expressed her feelings towards the 29-year-old American. Pointing to her heartwarming qualities, the Chinese mentioned, “Miss Pegula is really nice. When she sees that no one is warming up with me, even if she can play with the coach, she will take the initiative to ask me if I want to do some activities together. When I was at loss, she asked me to come over and take pictures together and asked the photographer to stay for a while to take a few more pictures of me. She also seemed to encourage me.” 

Yuan’s words of appreciation towards her final opponent undoubtedly made a highlight for the fans to look up to. Besides that, another moment that stole the show was the American champion’s post-victory speech.

Jessica’s post-victory speech steals the show

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

The Japanese finalist’s words for Jessica Pegula happened to be just another chapter in the story of the Korea Open 2023 finals. The American’s post-victory speech made fans cheer at the top of their lungs as she revealed her Korean connection. Taking the center stage position, she said, “I’m sorry I don’t speak, but I do like Korean BBQ & kimchi. My mom is Korean & she was adopted from here. It’s really special to be able to win here. Not a lot of people can say that.”

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

In the tennis world, where players often stay focused on the competition, this heartwarming exchange of words between Pegula and Yue at the Korea Open reminded players of the beauty of sportsmanship and the achievements that are won beyond titles.

WATCH THIS STORY | 19-Year-Old Coco Gauff Reveals Plans Featuring Drake and Jaden Smith to Revolutionize the Not-So-Cool Tennis