Tennis star Jessica Pegula recently opened up about the often-overlooked challenges of being a professional athlete on the WTA Tour, particularly the significant impact of tournament accommodations. Currently participating in the 2025 Bad Homburg Open as the top seed, Pegula shared her perspective on how hotel conditions can influence a player’s performance.
In her journey, Pegula noted that while competing frequently on the tour requires substantial dedication and sacrifice, the environment players live in during tournaments is equally crucial. She spoke candidly about her experiences, revealing that most athletes spend a considerable amount of time either on the court or in hotel rooms, making the quality of their accommodations a critical factor.
As Pegula reflected on her evolving priorities with age, she emphasized that a good hotel has become more important to her compared to when she was younger. “When you’re 20 and just starting to travel, you’re more out there grinding and embracing life on tour,” she stated. “But once you hit 30 and kind of need a better pillow, that stuff honestly becomes really important!”
The emotional toll of constant proximity to competitors is another concern she highlighted. Pegula illustrated this by explaining that being around fellow players not only during matches but also at meals, in the gym, and throughout hotel stays can be mentally draining. “We play pretty much every week together, and so, all of that together, you’re ready to lose it!” she said.
Touching on the positive effects of quality accommodations, Pegula shared how a comfortable hotel can enhance mood and performance. She recalled her stay near the Champs-Élysées during Roland Garros, indicating that better sleep and nutrition fostered by a pleasant environment translate to improved on-court performance. “There is no better motivation than having a nice hotel,” she added, reinforcing the connection between a positive mindset and athlete performance.
Overall, Pegula’s insights underscore the importance of mental well-being and comfort for athletes on the demanding WTA Tour. Her perspective presents a hopeful reminder that with improved conditions, players can thrive not only through sports but in their overall lifestyle. By recognizing the value of their environment, athletes like Pegula can enhance their overall tournament experience and performance.