Jessica Pegula screamed that she “wanted it so bad” after lifting the Canadian Open trophy for the second consecutive time. With enough time to relax after 5 tremendous wins with just one set lost, the American is now looking forward to the Cincinnati Open. Last year, her performance was hindered by an early exit. She is looking to rectify her stint, starting with Karolina Muchova. Following a defeat by Qinwen Zheng in the Palermo Ladies Open final, the Czechian began her run in Cincinnati with a notable opening match win. Will she be able to take Pegula down?

Jessica Pegula vs Karolina Muchova: Preview

Pegula defeated Amanda Anisimova 6-3, 2-6, 6-1 in the final in Canada to defend her title. The 30-year-old has played 36 matches in the ongoing season so far, winning 26. With a 16-5 record on hard courts. Her season highlights include winning titles in both Berlin as well, where she overcame Anna Kalinskaya with a score of 6-7(0), 6-4, 7-6(3). Pegula currently sits on a winning streak with five consecutive match victories. Her best performance in Cincinnati was reaching the quarterfinals in 2020 and 2022.

Muchova, on the other hand, advanced to the second round in her latest tournament by defeating Dayana Yastremska 7-6(6), 6-2. This was a strong performance by the Czech player, as she took the Ukrainian down in straight sets. Muchova scored 85 points compared to Yastremska’s 71 and hit 28 winners during the match. She is in hot-form, but her next challenge will require her to go into second gear.

Pegula vs Muchova: Head-to-head

The head-to-head statistics between Jessica Pegula and Karolina Muchova remain short of numbers as they have never played against each other. Although the Dubai Open main draw matched both the rivals against each other, they didn’t step on the courts because of Muchova’s withdrawal. With this first-ever matchup between them, the excitement levels are expected to experience a surge.

Prediction: Pegula to win in straight sets

The 30-year-old is pumped up with confidence after successfully defending her National Bank Open title. She showcased unbeatable levels throughout the tournament, dropping only one set and earning a well-deserved victory. Pegula has made it to the quarterfinals of the Cincinnati Open twice in the past, and now she aims to win the title. “I just love that it’s a true bounce. I feel like it’s very true to how someone’s playing, and that’s what I always enjoyed about the hard courts,” she acknowledged, after her tremendous victory in Toronto.

Pegula’s playing style is both durable and reliable. She has a wide wingspan and hits with remarkable power off both her forehand and backhand. Her success in doubles with Coco Gauff has also helped her become a skilled volleyer. Now that the duo has decided to not play together throughout the remaining part of the season, Pegula has a better opportunity to focus on her singles campaigns.

On the other hand, Muchova had a decent start by beating Yastremska in the first round, but her performance was a bit shaky. The Czechian is defending a lot of ranking points this week, but her loss to Pegula could drop her out of the Top 50. While Muchova will certainly fight hard considering the conditions, Pegula’s consistent game on hard courts is highly likely to give her the edge in this matchup.

The prediction is that Pegula will win in straight sets.