Jessica Pegula vs Elena-Gabriela Ruse Preview & Prediction | 2026 US Open | First Round

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Jessica Pegula takes on Elena-Gabriela Ruse in the first-round of the US Open. 

Start date/time: 30 August 2026 at 4:00 pm

Venue: USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, New York, USA

Surface: Outdoor hard

How to watch on TV: UK – Sky Sports Tennis / USA – ESPN

How to watch online: UK – Sky Go / USA – ESPN+

Tickets: Visit this link for the latest Jessica Pegula vs Elena-Gabriela Ruse ticket information

Jessica Pegula vs Elena-Gabriela Ruse prediction

Jessica Pegula begins her latest quest for a maiden Grand Slam title at the US Open, having reached the final of the event two years ago. The American has enjoyed another consistent season on the WTA Tour, reaching five finals and winning two events in Dubai and Charleston. Pegula was in the final of the Cincinnati Open last time out, but she was beaten by Coco Gauff in straight sets. Nevertheless, she will be seen as one of the favourites for the title in New York.

Her first-round opponent is Elena-Gabriela Ruse. The Romanian was forced to retire from her last match in Cincinnati against Alexandra Eala. She has advanced to two semi-finals in Linz and Bad Homburg this season, and is inside the top 65 of the world rankings.

This is a huge tournament for Pegula, and the world number three is the overwhelming favourite to begin with a comfortable victory in round one.

Jessica Pegula vs Elena-Gabriela Ruse tip: Under 21.5 games