Key Points:
- Jessica Pegula and Taylor Fritz are set for a digital "Battle of the Sexes" in Mario Tennis.
- Pegula is a passionate lifelong gamer, particularly fond of Nintendo titles like Super Mario Bros.
- The world No. 5 is a Nintendo partner, revealing her gaming enthusiasm during the Credit One Charleston Open.
- She typically plays as Princess Peach or Daisy, noting Daisy's "all-around" play style mirrors her own on the clay court.
From Grand Slams to Gaming Consoles: Pegula's Digital Court
While known for her fierce athleticism on the professional circuit, Jessica Pegula showcased a different side of her competitive spirit in Charleston. Following a demanding three-set win, the top-ranked American revealed her deep connection to video games, a hobby she’s cherished since childhood. Her recent collaboration as a Nintendo partner has brought this passion to the forefront.
"I played Mario Tennis all the time," Pegula shared, recalling countless hours spent on classic Nintendo DS consoles, which she humorously described as her "favorite console that ever existed." Her excitement to be involved with a brand she grew up playing was palpable, highlighting a relatable aspect of her personality for fans.
The Digital Duel: Pegula vs. Fritz in Mario Tennis
The most intriguing revelation, however, came with the news of a looming digital "Battle of the Sexes." Fellow Nintendo partner and tennis pro Taylor Fritz has already laid down the gauntlet, challenging Pegula to a match in Mario Tennis Fever. Fritz reportedly messaged her, declaring he would "destroy" her – a bold claim that Pegula met with a calm but confident "all right, like calm down."
Pegula admitted her preference for the controller over motion-sensing "swing mode" in Mario Tennis, a quirky admission for a world-class athlete. Despite her unparalleled hand-eye coordination on the real court, the virtual swing mode proved less natural. This digital rivalry adds a fun, fan-engaging layer to the players' off-court lives.
Princess Power: Pegula's Go-To Mario Character
When it comes to her in-game persona, Pegula typically gravitates towards the female characters. "I think I'm usually Peach, for whatever reason," she stated, although she admitted to sometimes choosing Princess Daisy for specific ads. She enjoys playing "the girl" characters in Mario Kart as well, a small detail that further endears her to the gaming community.
Intriguingly, Pegula noted that Daisy is often described as an "all-around" player in Mario Tennis – a descriptor that perfectly encapsulates Pegula's own versatile and consistent game on the actual tennis court. It's a subtle parallel that highlights her strategic thinking both on and off the court.
Charleston Challenge Continues for the Top Seed
Amidst the playful gaming banter, Jessica Pegula remains fiercely focused on her professional commitments. She successfully navigated another tough match, holding off Elisabetta Cocciaretto in a grueling third-set tiebreaker. Her journey at the Credit One Charleston Open continues as she prepares to face Diana Shnaider in what will be their first-ever clay-court encounter. Fans are eager to see if her "all-around" game translates into a deep run for the defending Charleston title hopeful.
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