Pegula Overcomes Tauson, Advances to Dubai Semi-Finals

Tauson's brave fight falls short against Pegula

Jessica Pegula defeats Clara Tauson in three sets, reaches Dubai WTA 1000 semi-finals. Clara Tauson's strong fight ends against Pegula's experience in Dubai quarters.

Pegula started strong, securing an early break and dictating play to take the first set 6-3 in just 28 minutes...

Jessica Pegula edged out Clara Tauson in a thrilling three-set match, winning 3-6, 6-2, 4-6 in the Dubai WTA 1000 quarterfinals. Tauson put up a strong fight, playing what was arguably her best match of 2026, but it wasn't enough to secure a semi-final spot.

Pegula's experience and consistency ultimately paid off, as she rallied from a set down to take the match. Tauson had shown impressive form leading up to the quarterfinals, defeating Sofia Kenin and Peyton Stearns in straight sets, but Pegula's strong return game and solid serving proved too much.

Clara Tauson gave Jessica Pegula a tough fight, pushing the world No. 5 to three sets. The Dane lost 3-6, 6-2, 4-6 after a grueling two hours.

7 - Jessica Pegula is the first player to reach the semi-final at seven consecutive WTA-level events appeared in since Agnieszka Radwanska (between Beijing 2015 and Indian Wells 2016). Consistency.#DDFTennis | @DDFTennis @WTA pic.twitter.com/JXgoVZTN6o

— OptaAce (@OptaAce) February 19, 2026

Pegula's consistency is on point – she's reached the semi-finals of the last two Grand Slams. 

Tauson's early exit means she'll drop points from last year's final, likely plummeting to No. 17 in the rankings come Monday.

Pegula started strong, securing an early break and dictating play to take the first set 6-3 in just 28 minutes. But Tauson bounced back, seizing momentum in the second set with a double break to level the match 1-1. 

Despite battling back trouble, Tauson gave it her all, but Pegula's experience ultimately shone through, sending her to the Dubai semi-finals for the second time.