Emma Raducanu is set to face the “world`s wealthiest tennis star” in the next round of the Miami Open after a decisive victory over Amanda Anisimova on Monday.
Raducanu, 22, is showing strong form in the United States and has reached the quarter-finals, where she will compete against world No. 4 Jessica Pegula.
While Pegula is ranked fourth globally, she holds the top position in terms of personal wealth.
The American player, with seven career titles, is known as the “world`s richest tennis star” due to her family`s estimated fortune of £7.7 billion.
Pegula`s father, 73-year-old Terry, owns the NFL`s Buffalo Bills and the NHL`s Buffalo Sabres.
Pegula herself has earned over £13.5 million in prize money throughout her career.
She openly shares her affluence, having generously provided her private jet for four other tennis players earlier this month.
The 2024 US Open finalist offered seats on her jet to McCartney Kessler, Zhang Shuai, Anna Blinkova, and Yuan Yue following the ATX Open in Texas.
Pegula is considered the favorite in her match against Raducanu, considering the 56-place difference in their world rankings.
However, the match might be more competitive than expected, as Raducanu has been regaining her top form in recent weeks.
Raducanu, who recently parted ways with her coach after just one match last week, stated that she has rediscovered her “competitive spirit” after defeating world No. 17 Anisimova on Monday.
She commented, “My greatest source of pride is rediscovering my competitive drive, committing to every ball, and drawing that intensity from within myself.”
“I believe this competitive edge has been somewhat absent in recent months, and even years at times.”
“I`m feeling a renewed hunger and competitiveness on the court, eager to chase down every ball. This, I believe, is the biggest achievement of this week.”
“Stepping onto the court, I`m confident that I will compete for every point, every ball. So far, this approach has been effective.”
“Furthermore, I find myself thinking less during matches now, which is likely beneficial, and I`m trying to unleash my creativity, as I believe that`s when I play my best tennis.”
