The tennis world is buzzing as Jessica Pegula advances to another US Open semifinal, but it’s not just her on-court success making headlines. Her billionaire father, Terry Pegula, has anchored his controversial $100 million yacht in Manhasset Bay, Long Island, just 30 minutes from Arthur Ashe Stadium, where his daughter will compete for a spot in the final.
How Did Jessica Pegula Dominate Her Way to Another Semifinal?
Jessica Pegula delivered another commanding performance at the 2025 US Open, defeating 2024 Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejčíková 6-3, 6-3 in Tuesday’s quarterfinal. The victory marked Pegula’s second consecutive semifinal appearance at Flushing Meadows, maintaining her perfect record of not dropping a single set throughout the tournament.
Jessica Pegula becomes the first woman to reach back-to back US Open semifinals without dropping a set since Serena Williams (2011-14) 😤 pic.twitter.com/KZ3TSardJP
— ESPN (@espn) September 2, 2025
The 31-year-old American became just the second player in the Open Era to reach her first two Grand Slam semifinals after turning 30. Her path to the semifinals has been remarkably smooth, having conceded only 23 games across five matches.
With Pegula’s place in the semifinals confirmed, her father, Terry, made his presence known in a dramatic way. The Buffalo Bills owner anchored his massive superyacht “Top Five II” in nearby waters, positioning himself within easy reach of Arthur Ashe Stadium. The yacht, valued between $75 million and $100 million, features luxury amenities including six suites for 12 guests, a glass-walled spa pool, sauna, cinema lounge and gym.
However, the yacht’s appearance has reignited controversy surrounding the Pegula family’s wealth. Bills fans have expressed frustration over Terry’s lavish lifestyle while New York taxpayers contribute $600 million toward the team’s new $2.1 billion stadium. The public funding represents the largest taxpayer contribution to an NFL facility in history.
With Jess Pegula playing in the US Open semifinal tomorrow night, her dad, Buffalo Bills owner Terry Pegula, has anchored his $100 million yacht in Manhasset Bay on Long Island.
That’s about a 30-minute drive to watch her play at Arthur Ashe. pic.twitter.com/KugmM16Yns
— Joe Pompliano (@JoePompliano) September 3, 2025
Despite the off-court drama, the Pegula family has consistently supported Jessica throughout her career. Her parents, Terry and Kim, have traveled extensively to watch her compete, though they often prefer watching from home due to nerves. “My parents have helped me achieve this dream I am living,” Jessica wrote in a 2023 essay. The family’s support system has been crucial to her success, with Kim noting that Jessica is “our first sports team and our favorite.”
Can Pegula Get Revenge Against Sabalenka in Thursday’s Semifinal?
Pegula enters her semifinal clash carrying momentum from an impressive tournament run. She has dominated her opponents, winning matches against Mayar Sherif, Anna Blinkova, Victoria Azarenka, Ann Li, and Krejčíková without facing significant resistance, in less than 90 minutes.
The semifinal presents a familiar challenge and opportunity for revenge. Pegula will face world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in a rematch of last year’s final. Sabalenka advanced after Markéta Vondroušová withdrew due to injury. The Belarusian holds a commanding 7-2 head-to-head record over Pegula, including victories in their last three meetings.
“It’d be cool to get revenge,” Pegula stated ahead of the potential matchup. Last year’s final saw Sabalenka win 7-5, 7-5, denying Pegula her first Grand Slam title.
2024 final 🏆
2025 semifinal 🤩Aryna Sabalenka and Jessica Pegula’s paths cross again at the business end of the US Open. pic.twitter.com/BIgHeGDjL3
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 2, 2025
The match represents more than just a semifinal for Pegula. At 31, she’s aware that opportunities to capture a maiden Grand Slam title are becoming more precious. Her recent form suggests she’s ready for the challenge, having won 37 of 53 matches in this season and claiming three WTA titles, including victories at Bad Homburg, Charleston and Austin.
The semifinal is scheduled for Thursday night at Arthur Ashe Stadium, where Pegula will have the home crowd advantage with her family in her corner.
