World-No. 3 Jessica Pegula is known today for her composed presence on court — calm under pressure, rarely showing extreme emotion even in big moments. But that demeanor wasn’t always appreciated. In a candid interview on Caroline Garcia’s Tennis Insider Club podcast, Pegula opened up about how her youth was marked by constant criticism of her attitude — and how she had to come to terms with who she truly is to succeed. Tennis World USA
Growing up, Pegula was naturally calm. Even as a young player with big goals, she didn’t react with intense emotion during matches, and that didn’t sit well with everyone around her early on. Coaches and even her own parents would tell her she looked like she didn’t care — a comment that stuck with her and made her question herself for years. Tennis World USA
Pegula said she tried to force herself into a different personality, trying to show fire or excitement because she thought that’s what others wanted — a player who visibly reacts and wears her emotions on her sleeve. But no matter how hard she tried, it felt unnatural and drained her energy without helping her play better. Tennis World USA
“It’s funny because when I was growing up, my parents or my coaches at the time never really liked my attitude,” Pegula explained. They’d tell her she looked like she didn’t care — which planted a complex in her mind. She’d think, “Okay, but I can’t do that,” trying to act fired up even when it didn’t fit who she was. Tennis World USA
It wasn’t until later — after years on tour and developing confidence in her own style — that Pegula realized how valuable her composure really is. Nowadays, people praise her calm presence on court, and she gets compliments like “I love your presence” or “You’re so calm.” That’s quite a turnaround from being criticized for it in her teens. Tennis World USA
She laughed at the irony of it all, pointing out how people now admire the very trait that once drew so much criticism. Pegula said she simply learned to accept that she isn’t going to pump her fists or manufacture emotion just for show: “I’m not going to do fake first pumps, that’s a complete waste of energy to me.” Tennis World USA
Her story resonates because it’s not just about tennis — it’s about authenticity. In a sport where fiery emotions and dramatic celebrations often steal headlines, Pegula’s quiet confidence is a reminder that success doesn’t require fitting a stereotype. She stayed true to herself, even when people told her to act differently, and that self-acceptance became one of her greatest strengths. Tennis World USA
Today, Jessica Pegula’s calm demeanor is not only respected — it’s admired by fans and players alike. That journey from self-doubt to self-acceptance is one of the most inspiring parts of her rise in tennis — and proves that sometimes, being yourself is the best game-plan of all.
