An all-American round of 16 showdown is set at Wimbledon as veteran Jessica Pegula prepares to face rising star Iva Jovic on Court 1.
The match follows major upsets and injuries during the first week of play in London.
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The matchup marks an intergenerational battle between the 32-year-old Pegula and the 18-year-old Jovic, the youngest remaining player in the singles draw.
Tournament organizers also confirmed that Venus and Serena Williams have officially pulled out of the doubles competition due to a knee injury sustained by Serena.
Serena Williams Heartbroken Over Withdrawal
Announcing the decision on social media, Serena Williams expressed her deep disappointment. "I'm heartbroken to have to withdraw from doubles," she said.
The 23-time Grand Slam champion explained that returning to SW19 alongside her sister was an invaluable milestone.
"Coming back to compete again has been a gift, and the opportunity to play alongside Venus once more meant the world to me.
I did everything I could but unfortunately my knee just isn't ready to compete," Serena added.
Pegula Dismisses Age Gap Talk
Meanwhile, attention shifts to the singles draw where Pegula dismissed suggestions that the 14-year age gap would influence the match.
"Stop talking about the age thing. Oh, my God.
I'm always motivated to beat the other Americans in a way that's different," she said.
The world number four emphasized that domestic rivalries bring out the highest level of motivation.
"It's more of just like I think we're really proud of our country and playing for our country.
