"I'm emotional" - Jessica Pegula breaks down in tears after ending compatriot Shelby Rogers' singles career in US Open 2024 1R

Jessica Pegula broke down in tears after she ended compatriot and long-time friend Shelby Rogers' singles career at the 2024 US Open. Pegula prevailed over Rogers 6-4, 6-3.

Rogers announced ahead of her 2024 US Open campaign that this would be the last assignment of her tennis career. After Pegula defeated her in the last singles match of her career, the World No. 6 was overwhelmed with emotions as she looked back on their journey together.

In the on-court interview, she stated that the duo had known each other since their under-16 days.

"Oh gosh, I am going to get emotional too. Congrats on a great career, amazing, seriously I am getting emotional. Sorry, I am getting more emotional. I remember just playing 16 under Southerns with her and now we are her and I think it’s so cool," Jessica Pegula said.

The duo shared a moment as Rogers hugged Pegula to help her calm down as the latter was visibly emotional. The former World No. 3 recalled their journeys, saying that they used to play juniors together and are now playing a night session match on Arthur Ashe.

"We grew up playing juniors together, grew up in the same sections and it’s really crazy, now we get to play night match at [Arthur] Ashe. Obviously, she has had some amazing wins here, amazing results here at the US Open," she said.

Pegula also wished Rogers' the best for the next chapter of her life.

"I am sure I’ll see you in Florida and we’ll take our dogs on more playdates. I’ll get to hang out with you and John [Slavik] and congrats to you and your family and everyone’s that here and your team. I know you have been through a lot with injuries and all that stuff so it’s just, I just wish you all the best in the next chapter," she added.

Shelby Rogers will still compete in doubles (with Petra Martic) and mixed doubles (with Robert Galloway).

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Jessica Pegula to take on Sofia Kenin in the US Open 2024 second round

Jessica Pegula and Sofia Kenin to fight for a place in the third round (Image: Getty)

Jessica Pegula defeated Shelby Rogers to reach the second round in straight sets. On the other hand, Sofia Kenin battled past former champion Emma Raducanu in three sets.

Kenin drew first blood, winning the first set 6-1. The Brit fought back to take the second set 6-3 and level the match. Kenin raised her level to take the third set 6-4 to reach the second round.

The head-to-head between Pegula and Kenin is locked at 2-2. The winner of the match will take on either Katie Boulter or Jessica Bouzas Maneiro in the third round.