Sat Jan 24 03:30:00 UTC 2026: ### Pegula and Musetti Overcome Doubles Partners in Australian Open Singles Matches

The Story:
In the 2026 Australian Open, Jessica Pegula and Lorenzo Musetti both secured victories against their respective doubles partners in the second round of singles competition. Pegula dominated McCartney Kessler with a score of 6-0, 6-2, while Musetti overcame Lorenzo Sonego 6-3, 6-3, 6-4. Both players acknowledged the awkwardness of competing against close friends and recent doubles partners, but ultimately prioritized their individual ambitions in the tournament.

Key Points:
* Jessica Pegula defeated McCartney Kessler 6-0, 6-2 in 58 minutes.
* Lorenzo Musetti defeated Lorenzo Sonego 6-3, 6-3, 6-4.
* Pegula and Kessler were doubles partners, losing in Melbourne Park earlier in the week.
* Musetti and Sonego recently won the doubles title at the Hong Kong Open earlier in January.
* Pegula expressed the “unfortunate” nature of having to compete against a friend and doubles partner.
* Musetti acknowledged the difficulty of separating friendship from competition.
* Pegula is set to face Oksana Selekhmeteva in the next round, with a potential fourth-round match against Madison Keys.

Key Takeaways:

  • Professional athletes often face the challenging situation of competing against friends and partners, requiring them to compartmentalize personal relationships from professional goals.
  • Jessica Pegula continues her strong performance at the Australian Open, advancing to the third round.
  • Lorenzo Musetti also advances to the third round, marking his second time reaching this stage at the Australian Open.
  • The draw for the Australian Open has created intriguing matchups involving doubles partners facing off in singles competition.

    Read More