Jessica Pegula, one of America’s top tennis talents, has never been shy about her competitive spirit—whether it’s on the court or in the virtual world of gaming. The World No. 3 recently let slip a surprising tidbit about her off-court pursuits, revealing that she’s been leaning on fellow tennis star Taylor Fritz for some much-needed gaming wisdom. With a grin and a touch of humility, Pegula admitted that when it comes to mastering the digital battlefield, Fritz holds the upper hand. “Taylor’s definitely better than me at gaming,” she confessed during a lighthearted moment with reporters ahead of her latest tournament preparations. “I’ve been asking him for tips because I need all the help I can get!”
The revelation came as Pegula, fresh off a stellar 2025 season that’s seen her cement her status among the WTA elite, opened up about her downtime passions. While she’s known for her relentless baseline game and steely focus—qualities that have propelled her to multiple Grand Slam quarterfinals and a career-high ranking—gaming offers her a chance to unwind. But it’s not just a casual hobby; Pegula approaches it with the same intensity she brings to tennis. The only problem? She’s hit a wall in her virtual skills, and that’s where Fritz, the ATP’s No. 7 and a self-proclaimed gaming aficionado, enters the picture.
Fritz, who reached the US Open final last year and has been a consistent force on the men’s tour, isn’t just a powerhouse with a racquet. Off the court, he’s carved out a reputation as a skilled gamer, often spotted diving into titles like *Call of Duty* or *Fortnite* during tour breaks. His prowess in the gaming realm has caught the attention of fans and peers alike, and now it seems Pegula is the latest to tap into his expertise. “He’s got this natural knack for it,” she said, shaking her head with a mix of admiration and mock frustration. “I’ll send him a message like, ‘Okay, how do I not get destroyed in this round?’ and he just knows exactly what to do.”
The dynamic between the two American stars adds a fresh layer to their already strong camaraderie. Both have been flag-bearers for U.S. tennis, with Pegula dominating on the women’s side and Fritz leading a resurgence among the men. Their friendship, forged through years of shared tournaments and Team USA events like the United Cup, has blossomed into a playful rivalry in the gaming sphere. Pegula’s willingness to seek Fritz’s advice speaks to their mutual respect—and her determination to level up, even if it means swallowing a bit of pride. “I’m not too proud to admit when someone’s better,” she laughed. “He’s got the edge, but I’m working on it.”
For Pegula, gaming isn’t just a way to pass the time—it’s a mental reset. After a grueling season that included a WTA 500 title in Berlin and a runner-up finish at the Cincinnati Open, she’s found solace in the fast-paced world of online play. But as her competitive nature kicked in, so did her desire to improve. Fritz, who’s been known to stream his gaming sessions to thousands of followers, has become her go-to coach. “It’s funny because we’ll be talking strategy for a match one minute, and the next I’m asking him how to aim better in a shooter game,” she shared. “He’s patient with me, though—probably more patient than I deserve.”
Their gaming connection also highlights a broader trend among athletes, who increasingly turn to video games for relaxation and bonding. For Pegula and Fritz, it’s a chance to step away from the pressures of the tour while still feeding their competitive appetites. As Pegula prepares for the clay season, with the Mutua Madrid Open on the horizon, she’s juggling her training with late-night gaming sessions—hoping Fritz’s pointers pay off. “I’m getting there,” she said with a determined nod. “One day, I’ll surprise him and win a round. He won’t see it coming.”
For now, Fritz remains the undisputed gaming champ in their duo, but Pegula’s tenacity suggests she won’t stay in his shadow for long. Whether it’s on the court or the console, these two are proving that competition—and friendship—knows no bounds.
Leave a Reply