"Breaking: Elise Mertens Clinches Commanding Victory Over No. 3 Seed Jessica Pegula, Advances to Rome Masters Round of 16; Snaps 14-Match Top 10 Losing Streak"
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Mertens’ Onslaught: A Rare Top 10 Win and Career Milestone
In a thrilling encounter on the Campo Centrale, Elise Mertens, the Belgian powerhouse, outclassed world No. 3, Jessica Pegula, 7-5, 6-1, to advance to the Internazionali BNL d’Italia’s Round of 16. The 25th seed needed just 1 hour and 24 minutes to dismantle Pegula, extending her dominance in their head-to-head rivalry to 4-1.
"I think I played really smart tennis today," Mertens reflected on her performance. "I served well, and I was aggressive when I needed to be."
Mertens: Ending a Top 10 Drought and Making History
This triumph was more than just a win; it was a turning point for Mertens, ending her 14-match losing streak against Top 10 players. Her previous victory in this tier dates back to the 2023 Roland Garros, coincidentally, against the same opponent, Jessica Pegula.
But Mertens’ grunt work didn’t stop at snapping her drought. She also became the second Belgian woman to achieve a Top 5 win at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia, following in the footsteps of former world No. 1, Justine Henin, who accomplished this feat in 2002 against Kim Clijsters.
Mertens vs. Pegula: A Tale of Two Halves
The first set was a tight affair, with both players trading blows. However, Mertens’ consistency and aggression proved too much for Pegula, who managed just 11 winners to Mertens’ 19. The Belgian was clinical on break points, converting all four that came her way.
In the second set, Mertens’ dominance was apparent. She dropped only one game, racing to a 6-1 victory and setting up a Round of 16 showdown with No. 13 seed Diana Shnaider, a matchup she leads 2-0.
Mertens: On the Verge of Another WTA 1000 Quarterfinal
If Mertens can secure another win, she will reach her 7th career WTA 1000 quarterfinal. Her best performances at these elite events have been two semifinals, at 2020 Cincinnati and 2021 Dubai. Could Mertens be on her way to bettering these achievements in Rome?
Did you know? Mertens now has 131 aces in 2025, placing her 3rd on the WTA Tour’s ace leaderboard, behind only Clara Tauson and Madison Keys.
Pegula: Still a Force, Despite the Setback
Despite the loss, Pegula remains a formidable force on tour. She still boasts the 2nd most main-draw match-wins this year, with 28 (only Aryna Sabalenka has more, with 32). However, her 3-3 record on clay so far this European swing might be a slight cause for concern.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Mertens’ confidence going forward. She’s a dangerous player when she’s playing with this much swagger.
FAQs
Q: How does Mertens’ ranking compare to Pegula’s?
A: Mertens is ranked No. 25, while Pegula is world No. 3.
Q: Who will Mertens face next?
A: She will take on No. 13 seed Diana Shnaider for a spot in the quarterfinals.