Rick Macci believes Jessica Pegula will soon overtake Coco Gauff in the WTA rankings - "Not where you start it is where you finish"

Tennis star Jessica Pegula has been one of the most in-form players on the WTA tour over the past few weeks, prompting legendary tennis coach Rick Macci to claim she is the top-ranked American at the moment.

The Buffalo native displayed her spectacular game-style during the 2025 Miami Open, where she battled past dangerous opponents to face World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka in the final. Although the Belarusian prevailed in straight sets, Pegula appears to have rediscovered the form that saw her reach her maiden Grand Slam final at last year's US Open.

The former coach of WTA legend Serena Williams has never been shy when voicing his opinion, and was quick to praise Pegula for her impressive performance. Furthermore, Macci stated the 31-year old was the best American player on the WTA tour at the moment, despite being ranked World No.4 in contrast to compatriot Coco Gauff, who is ranked World No.3.

"Age 31 the Buffalo Blaster is really the American Master ranked number 3 on the Planet because her mind and strokes are like granite,” wrote Macci on Twitter. “Has been ranked number 1 doubles and understanding of the court gives others troubles. Not where you start it is where you finish."

Gauff currently sits only 267 points ahead of Pegula in the WTA rankings, with Australian Open champion Madison Keys the third highest ranked American player. However, Pegula is in good position to overtake Gauff, as the World No.4 was injured for most of the clay court swing last year. Therefore Pegula has 1,203 less points to defend than Gauff, putting her in a good position to become the top ranked American.