Jessica Pegula issues huge statement on Serena Williams' greatness, Coco Gauff future

• Tennis News
• Serena Williams

Jessica Pegula declared Serena Williams "the GOAT" and also named Coco Gauff as "the present and the future" of American women's tennis. Pegula, ranked at No 5 in the world, was the top-ranked American female player for quite some time before Gauff surpassed her in the rankings following her US Open win.

On Thursday, Pegula defeated Maria Sakkari 6-3 6-2 to go 3-0 in the group stage at the WTA Finals. After the match, 29-year-old Pegula was asked if she and Gauff were battling for the title of being "the next American star."

Pegula: Williams the GOAT, Gauff is the present and the future

“No I don’t because I’m 10 years older.

I’m definitely not going to be playing as long as she’s going to be playing. And she’s already won the US Open, so I think she’s got that battle won. I definitely don’t think there’s competition there.

Again, comparing to Serena’s a big feat. I don’t think anyone is like Serena. I think Serena’s her own person. I think she’s the GOAT, or whatever you want to say. So I don’t think it’s possible to fill those shoes probably ever (smiles).

But I think Coco is the present and the future. I think she’s still gonna have a long ways to grow and get better in the sport. As long as she’s healthy and she’s competing, she’s gonna be battling for titles for many more years to come.

Much more years than me. So I don’t consider myself that person, I guess. But I’m happy to represent American tennis," Pegula said, via The Tennis Letter.

Jessica Pegula was asked if there’s a battle with Coco Gauff to be the next American star

“How do you see the present & future of American women’s tennis? Because you & Coco are here.

Serena retired not long ago. Do you feel kind of pressure to be the new American star? Or how… pic.twitter.com/FkvoX6XyRv — The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) November 3, 2023

A year after Williams retired at the US Open, Gauff became a Grand Slam champion at the US Open.

Moments after lifting her first Major, Gauff paid special tribute to her idol Williams. Gauff is currently enjoying a career-high ranking of No 3 in the world and her next big goal is reaching the world No 1 position.