MELBOURNE, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Sixth seed Jessica Pegula claimed bragging rights on Wednesday with a straight-sets victory over Amanda Anisimova in an all-American quarterfinal at the Australian Open.
The 2024 U.S. Open finalist remained on track for an elusive Grand Slam title after her 6-2, 7-6 (1) win in one hour and 35 minutes at Rod Laver Arena.
Pegula struck 20 winners to end fourth-seeded Anisimova's bid to reach a third straight Grand Slam final.
"It's awesome. I've been able to go deep in the U.S. Open but I feel like I play well here and I like the conditions," Pegula said.
Pegula had lost her previous three quarterfinals in Melbourne but entered with confidence after ending Madison Keys' title defense in the fourth round.
Her strong form was evident in a dominant opening set before being pushed in the second by Anisimova, who rediscovered the touch that helped her overwhelm China's Wang Xinyu in the last 16.
Pegula was unable to serve out the match in the 12th game, but regrouped to set up a semifinal with Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, who earlier upset second seed Iga Swiatek in straight sets. ■
