Jessica Pegula has faced many of the biggest names in women’s tennis across more than 750 professional matches, but one opponent still stood out as the most intimidating presence on court.

Speaking on The Player’s Box Podcast, the American pointed to former world number one Victoria Azarenka, praising the Belarusian’s fierce intensity and laser focus whenever she steps onto the court.

Pegula admitted Azarenka made an immediate impression the first time they practiced together.

“I was going to say Vika, because Vika is so intense on the court,” Pegula said.

“The first time I hit with her, I was like, ‘Oh my gosh, I am not good enough.’ She is so intimidating.”

She added that Azarenka’s energy level is what separates her from many others.

“Her energy when she is out there, when she starts, it’s so intense and so focused. It’s great practice, especially if you want to replicate just from start to finish intensity.”

Despite those comments, Pegula has enjoyed success in their rivalry, leading their head-to-head record 4-3 after seven WTA Tour meetings.

While Azarenka may appear intimidating during competition, Pegula explained that her personality off court is very different.

“But off the court she is pretty chill,” Pegula said. “She always says hi.”

Pegula also recalled being surprised when Azarenka congratulated her after winning her first WTA title in Washington in 2019.

“She was playing at the time and doing really well, and I was like, ‘Why does Azarenka know I won a tournament?’ And I was like, thanks!”

Azarenka, a two-time Grand Slam champion, has not played since losing to Pegula at the 2025 US Open. She currently sits outside the top 200 in the live rankings, with uncertainty still surrounding when she may return to the WTA Tour.

What Casper Ruud told himself before saving match points to beat Stefanos Tsitsipas

Daniil Medvedev shares doubts over Rafael Jodar rise

Arthur Fils ends 13-year wait for French quarter-finalist at Madrid Open