Keys to the match
Pegula’s serve takes a hammering
Pegula can usually rely on getting a good percentage of points on her first serve but she found life tough throughout. She won just 50 percent of points on first serve, and only 39 percent on her second serve. Mertens was aggressive throughout, never allowing her to settle.
Mertens strong on break points
When Pegula did manage to work herself the odd chance, it was quickly blocked by the tenacity of Mertens. The Belgian saved five of the six break points she faced and took all five of her own break points.
Mertens dominating long rallies
When the rallies went long, Mertens was in her element. The No.28 seed won 13 of the 15 points when the rallies went to nine or more. For good measure, she also had the edge in the 0-4 and 5-8 categories too.