In a stunning display of resilience and precision, world number 55 Olga Danilovic crushed seventh seed Jessica Pegula 7-6 (3), 6-1, to claim the biggest victory of her career and secure a historic place in the round of 16 of the Australian Open.
The Serbian tennis prodigy defied all expectations in Melbourne, dismantling the 2024 US Open runner-up with a relentless performance that sent shockwaves through the tournament. Pegula, heavily favored to dominate, was outplayed by Danilovic’s bold and strategic play.
Danilovic’s domination: A match to remember
The 23-year-old Serbian was unstoppable from start to finish. After winning her opening rounds in straight sets, Danilovic proved she was no fluke, responding when it mattered most.
His service stats were nothing short of clinical:
- Five aces
- 76% success rate on first serve points
- 6 out of 6 break points saved
While Pegula struggled to find his rhythm, managing only 12 winners against 22 unforced errors, Danilovic kept his calm. She hit 28 winners and limited her unforced errors to 27, showing a stark contrast to her opponent’s erratic play.
-How the match went
The match started with both players holding their serve firmly. In the first set, Danilovic survived two break points in the second game and narrowly missed a chance to break Pegula in the 11th. The set ended in a thrilling tiebreak, where Pegula briefly led 3-2. But Danilovic, refusing to give in, took the lead to win the next five points and steal the set.
The second set was a masterclass in mental toughness. Danilovic repelled four break points in a crucial third game before breaking Pegula twice in a row. Leading 5-1 and brimming with confidence, she calmly served for the match, leaving her American opponent stunned.
What’s next for the Serbian sensation?
Danilovic’s reward for her sensational victory is a clash against Paula Badosa, who defeated Marta Kostyuk earlier in the day. With momentum firmly on her side, the world number 55 now has a golden opportunity to continue her Cinderella run in Melbourne.
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