Jessica Pegula‘s Olympic defeat came as a disappointment for countless American fans out there. However, she has left it in the past as her campaign in the Canadian Open reflects a notable rise. Besides the professional side of her life, Pegula ensures to give equal attention to her heritage, especially after her mother’s sickness. As it all happened, she experienced growth in her Korean roots and came forward to reveal how it has “definitely changed a lot“.

Kim Pegula’s health crisis in 2022 came as a big shock, bringing notable changes in the WTA star’s life. The American shared in an essay for The Players’ Tribune that her mother suffered a cardiac arrest and regarded it as an experience that deeply affected her and her family. Pegula explained, “My mom was asleep when my dad woke up to her going into cardiac arrest and she was unresponsive for quite a while.”

This difficult time encouraged Pegula to reconnect with her heritage and explore her cultural identity. “It’s been like a drastic change into how much I’ve been, I guess, welcomed and rooted for and cheered for, not just because of myself, but also because of my mom,” the 30-year-old said. Pegula has also taken the opportunity to visit her mother’s old orphanage in Seoul and to connect more with the Korean community.

She has played tennis in Korea several times and appreciates the support she receives from fans. Winning a tournament in Seoul in 2022 is a moment that drives her as it allowed the WTA pro to connect with her roots and celebrate her cultural identity in a new way. She is touched by the number of young girls who look up to her and relate to her as someone who is also half Korean. She shared, “It’s amazing when I see the really young girls that are also maybe half Korean, and they’re like, ‘Oh, my God, I’m half Korean just like you.’”

The experience of connecting with her heritage and seeing young fans look up to her came out to be rewarding. As she continues to navigate her relationship with her heritage along with moving ahead in her professional career, it isn’t complaining but gratefulness that captivates her mind.

Jessica Pegula reveals a shocking tale of struggle about her mother’s Korean origin

Jessica Pegula couldn’t contain her joy after winning the Korean Open title in 2023. As soon as she took center stage, she shared how much this victory meant to her personally. Pegula said her victory in Seoul was even more special since her mom was adopted by her parents from Korea. The 30-year-old also noticed a surge in fan support in recent years as her ranking improved and acknowledged it among the crowd. 

After her victory, Pegula posted a heartfelt message on X, revealing a shocking reality about her mom’s connection with Korea. “This one is extra special. I am half Korean. My mom visited her orphanage here when I played this event 4 years ago. It was the first time she felt open about learning about her past. Her health struggles the past year made this tournament a goal to win. It has been such an honor to play in front of you,” she narrated.

Pegula’s mother was adopted after being found on the doorstep of a Korean police station. The fact that she honors the place because of her mother shows her soft side towards family besides an aggressive approach on the courts.