Noskova beats Pegula to lift Berlin Open trophy

Czech Republic's Linda Noskova captured her first grass-court title at the Berlin Open, defeating American Jessica Pegula 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 in Sunday's final. This victory marks Noskova's second WTA singles title and is expected to propel her into the top 10 for the first time in her career.

Noskova converted her third break point to take the first set. Pegula, the 2024 champion, mounted a challenge in a tight second set, forcing a decider. However, the eighth seed maintained her composure, securing an early break in the final set to close out the match.

"Wow what a week. Obviously I want to congratulate Jessie. You’re incredible and a very tricky player to play on whatever surface. It was really tough to play you in the final," Noskova said after her win. "I don’t know where I’m gonna put this trophy, it’s too heavy!"

The final was delayed due to extreme weather, which necessitated the evacuation of spectators. Organizers later issued an apology following criticism over the conduct of staff during the evacuation process. Pegula's hopes of a second title were dashed despite her earlier semi-final victory over world number one Aryna Sabalenka.

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Wow what a week. Obviously I want to congratulate Jessie. You’re incredible and a very tricky player to play on whatever surface. It was really tough to play you in the final. I don’t know where I’m gonna put this trophy, it’s too heavy!