US Open tennis star Jessica Pegula was left in floods of tears during her on-court interview after ending the career of her close friend Shelby Rogers.
Pegula recorded a 6-4 6-3 win over her fellow American at Flushing Meadows, with Rogers entering retirement following the major tournament in New York.
There were emotional scenes on the court at Arthur Ashe Stadium after the match with sixth-seed Pegula breaking down in tears as she paid tribute to Rogers.
‘Oh gosh, I am going to get emotional,’ Pegula said after booking her spot in the second round.
‘Congrats on a great career, amazing, seriously I am getting emotional. Sorry, I am getting more emotional.
‘I remember just playing 16 under Southerns with her and now we are her and I think it’s so cool
‘We grew up playing juniors together, grew up in the same sections and it’s really crazy, now we get to play a night match at [Arthur] Ashe.
‘Obviously, she has had some amazing wins here, amazing results here at the US Open.
‘I am sure I’ll see you in Florida and we’ll take our dogs on more playdates. I’ll get to hang out with you and John [Slavik] and congrats to you and your family and everyone’s that here and your team.
‘I know you have been through a lot with injuries and all that stuff so it’s just… I just wish you all the best in the next chapter.’
Rogers, meanwhile, added: ‘[I have] overwhelming emotions. The main one is just gratitude.
‘Gratitude for all the amazing moments and some tough ones on this court too. But really special that I’m able to play here one more time.
‘My team, everyone behind the scenes that’s been there for decades. It’s been a lot of years in the making.’
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