Jessica Pegula and Carlos Alcaraz Shine at Madison Square Garden Exhibition

Pegula reflects on her U.S. Open breakthrough as she and Alcaraz headline a special tennis event in New York City.

Jessica Pegula returned to New York for the Garden Cup exhibition at Madison Square Garden, following her historic U.S. Open final appearance in September.
Pegula faced fellow American Emma Navarro, who reached the U.S. Open semifinals, while Carlos Alcaraz took on Ben Shelton in front of nearly 20,000 fans.
The event marked Alcaraz’s return to the court after a brief break following the Davis Cup, which also featured Rafael Nadal’s final professional appearance before retirement.
Pegula, who rested a knee injury after the WTA Finals in November, emphasized the significance of playing at MSG during the holiday season, calling it a unique opportunity.
Both Pegula and Navarro highlighted the emotional connection of returning to New York, with Pegula noting the unwavering support of local fans and her ties to Western New York.