2024 Canadian Open champion Jessica Pegula is back on the court after her friend Madison Keys’ gala wedding. However, it seems she hasn’t been able to leave behind chilled-out vibe of the wedding. Ahead of her Garden Cup match today, the WTA star showcased a playful side with a funny gesture towards Carlos Alcaraz. The American’s gesture sparked curiosity among the fraternity leaving everyone wondering – Is a Pegula-Alcaraz friendship taking off?

Returning after five years, the 2024 Garden Cup has already generated excitement among tennis fans worldwide, thanks to an incredible lineup featuring Ben Shelton, Emma Navarro, Jessica Pegula, and Spain’s favorite Carlos Alcaraz. Alongside spectators, even the participants are eager to perform in front of a roaring New York crowd. “As a New York tennis player, you dream of playing in the US Open final and at Madison Square Garden. To be able to do both in one year shows that dreams can come true. I’m really looking forward to coming back to New York and playing Emma in front of the best fans in the world,” Pegula said, expressing her intense excitement. Her enthusiasm was more evident in a playful gesture toward her colleague Carlos Alcaraz.

The American player took to her official IG story to share a picture of a cupcake with Alcaraz’s face on it as its icing. Holding the half-eaten dessert, Pegula issued a heartwarming and funny apology to her companion performer at the Garden Cup, captioning it, “Sorry @carlitosalcarazz,” and tagging Tennis Night Out. The American player’s gesture showcased that she might not have fully gotten over her vacation mode. Pegula enjoyed a well-deserved off-season break attending Madison Keys’ wedding to Bjorn Fratangelo and accompanied her introverted yet handsome husband, Taylor Gahagen. After the wedding fun, this WTA star is eager to drop curtains to the season on a high note with another trophy.

Interestingly, Pegula’s partner in Garden Cup, Alcaraz also enjoyed a refreshing family vacation in the Dominican Republic, with his yacht photos reflecting a relaxed family time. Now back on the court, the Spaniard has shifted focus to this exhibition match. “I am looking forward to returning to New York on December 4 to play Ben at Madison Square Garden. Playing in front of the New York fans at The World’s Most Famous Arena will be an unforgettable night. It will be a great experience,” Alcaraz shared, expressing his excitement about sharing the court with players like Shelton, Navarro, and Pegula.

Pegula’s hilarious banter with Carlos Alcaraz showcases the beginning of a great friendship blooming between the duo. However, this isn’t the first time Pegula has taken a funny dig at Alcaraz. During a post-match speech previously, the American WTA star expressed admiration for the 2024 Wimbledon champion, highlighting how carefully she follows Alcaraz’s style.

Jessica Pegula found it “hard to follow Carlos”

The American WTA star revealed an interesting fact after winning her second-round match at Arthur Ashe Stadium in the 2024 Flushing Meadows. Pegula conquered Patricia Maria Tig with a comfortable victory 6-3, 6-1. However more than that incredible performance, Pegula’s one aspect delighted the audience. When asked about her feelings about playing in front of such a huge crowd at the stadium, Pegula said, “Thanks everyone for staying tonight. I appreciate the support, it’s hard to follow Carlos [Alcaraz]… it’s tough act to follow man I don’t know why. I don’t think I’m ever gonna do that justice.” Although she offered gratitude to her supporters, she highlighted how tough it is to follow the Spaniard’s charm. Pegula referred to the Spaniard’s victory over Llyod Harris 6-3, 6-1, 7-6 (4), which happened right before her match at Arthur Ashe stadium. Needless to say, Alcaraz brought a huge crowd following his incredible performance. Pegula’s statement showcased how talented Alcaraz is.

Jessica Pegula‘s cheeky message to Carlos Alcaraz hints at a newly blossomed friendship that might offer a spell-bound match to the audience today. What are your thoughts?