‘Never Going to Win a Grand Slam’: Serena Williams’ Former Coach Sends Shockwaves Through Tennis with a Brutal Reality Check for Alex Eala and Jessica Pegula
Serena Williams’ former coach Rennae Stubbs drew an interesting parallel between Jessica Pegula, the American No. 1, and Alex Eala, the fast-rising youngster during a recent episode of her The Rennae Stubbs Tennis Podcast.
Speaking about the chances of Eala winning a Grand Slam in the future, Stubbs quickly singled out her serve as a weakness, one that according to her would prevent her from lifting the biggest prize that the sport has to offer.
Stubbs said Pegula, who has reached one Grand Slam final (the 2024 US Open), had similar issues. While she conceded that she wished to see Pegula win a Grand Slam, her very attackable second serve made it nearly impossible to accomplish.Alexandra Eala’s serve is never going to win her a Grand Slam. I know you could say the same about Angie Kerber, but I feel like that’s what’s holding her back,” Rennae Stubbs said.”I think that’s what’s holding Jessica Pegula back as well. Pegula’s second serve is very vulnerable against players who hit hard. I still have hope that she can win one, but I just don’t see it as possible,” she added.
Notably, Eala broke onto the big stage at the Miami Open last year. She has since risen up the ranks and is often seen upstaging big names. Just recently, she beat defending champion Iga Swiatek en-route to the Wimbledon fourth-round. Many within the tennis fraternity see has a possible contender for future Grand Slams. Her best showing at the stage was the fourth-round run at Wimbledon itself.
Alex Eala reaches DC quarterfinal, Jessica Pegula to begin US Open swing at Toronto
Alex Eala has made a habit of taking out defending champions. After her exploits at Wimbledon, she has now ousted the defending champion at the Mubadala DC Open.
The Filipino made a strong start to her campaign at the WTA 500 event, beating Zheng Qinwen in her opening match in a three-set battle. She then took another big scalp in the form of seventh seed Leylah Fernandez, who had lifted the title 12 months ago. The youngster beat her opponent in two tight sets 6-2, 7-6(1).
Jessica Pegula, meanwhile, has not played any events since Wimbledon. She is scheduled to begin her US Open swing with the Canadian Open, which will be played in Toronto from August 1 to 13.
