Emma Navarro and Carlos Alcaraz both turned heads Wednesday evening at Madison Square Garden, bringing their A-game to the World’s Most Famous Arena in the Garden Cup exhibition. New York-native Navarro triumphed over Jessica Pegula, 7-6, 7-5, in a thrilling encounter. Pegula, who recently reached the US Open final in Queens, reflected on the significance of playing in New York, saying, “Brings back so many good memories, so many emotions… I can’t believe we’re here at the Garden, playing tennis. It’s so cool.”
Throughout the match, Pegula attempted to channel Alcaraz’s signature drop shot, but struggled to execute it effectively. “I tried to channel Carlitos, and it’s not working,” Pegula said in a lighthearted moment after the first set. Despite her efforts, Navarro rallied to seal the win. One of Navarro’s most memorable moments came when she turned to a courtside fan for advice during a critical break point.
Alcaraz, the 21-year-old world No. 3, followed Navarro’s victory with a 4-6, 6-2, [1-0] win over American Ben Shelton. After his match, Alcaraz shared his goal of entertaining fans, stating, “I’m trying to make the people enjoy watching tennis… that’s what I try to do every time.” Also read: Who is Clara Burel Boyfriend or Husband? Is she Single or Married?
The star-studded event also attracted notable figures, including fashion icon Anna Wintour and NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.
Looking ahead, Alcaraz will continue his exhibition tour in Charlotte, N.C., before focusing on the Australian Open, the lone major title missing from his collection. Shelton, however, remains determined to challenge the Spaniard and his Italian counterparts. “We got some Spaniards and Italians to chase out in front of us,” Shelton said to the sellout crowd.
Emma Navarro, who had a career-best season in 2024, including a US Open semifinal appearance, reflected on the special nature of playing at the Garden, saying, “Just so special to be here playing in this arena. It’s insane.” Also read: Who is Jennifer Brady Boyfriend? Is Jennifer Brady single or married?