Jessica Pegula is ready to make her mark in the Asian swing of the WTA tour. Known for her hard-court dominance, she kicked off the China Open with a strong performance, defeating Diane Parry in a compelling match. And then in a thrilling showdown against Veronika Kudermetova in the next round, Pegula battled back after narrowly losing a tightly contested first set, ultimately winning 6-7(9), 6-1, 6-2. With her fierce skills and relatable personality on full display, Pegula is captivating the local fans, as she continues her journey in Beijing.

Pegula’s match against Kudermetova lasted nearly two hours and forty minutes, marking her first victory over the Russian in three attempts. The American’s resilience was evident as she regrouped after the first set and carried that momentum into the next two sets.

However, Jessica Pegula’s interactions with fans go beyond her impressive on-court achievements. After her match against Kudermetova, Pegula shared a touching moment during the post-match interview, saying, “I signed a picture from my wedding today. I don’t know who that was, but they had a picture of that, so they definitely know me very well.”

Pegula expressed gratitude for her fans’ dedication, noting that many go to great lengths to make their encounters feel personal and special. The 30-year-old has always embraced her Asian heritage. Her mother Kim was born in Seoul.

Pegula uses her platform to serve as a figure of representation for the Asian American community. Her participation in tournaments like the Korea Open not only gives her a platform to showcase her skill on the court but also allows her to connect with fans who see themselves reflected in her journey.

Pegula’s down-to-earth nature has earned her the title of the “People’s Princess.” When she interacts with these young fans, she feels a deep sense of responsibility and pride. Pegula understands the impact she has on young girls, particularly those of Korean or mixed Asian heritage. It’s because of her authenticity that Pegula has a strong connection with fans.

The No. 3 player is connecting with fans through her authenticity and passion.

Jessica Pegula’s interactions with fans have been as memorable as her on-court performances. For instance, at the US Open, when she was struggling in the match against Sofia Kenin, the crowd’s unwavering support helped her regain focus. She even tossed her racket in frustration but was quickly reminded of the crowd’s support that rallied behind her.

Reflecting on her connection with fans, Pegula once stated, “I just don’t feel famous; I feel like a regular person. People approach me and think I’m some extraordinary being, and I’m not—I’m just a tennis player trying to uplift those around me.”

It’s this authenticity that not only fuels Pegula’s on-court success but also makes her a cherished figure in the tennis community. As she continues her journey through the China Open, Pegula’s genuine interactions only deepen her bond with supporters.