"It's where I got married" - Jessica Pegula 'devastated' as Hurricane Helene reportedly leaves 30 people dead in Buncombe County, offers support
Jessica Pegula expressed her devastation after witnessing the aftermath of Hurricane Helene in North Carolina, a place that holds special significance for her as she got married there. She also offered to extend a helping hand in the recovery efforts.
Helene initially formed as a hurricane, becoming the most powerful ever recorded to strike Florida's Big Bend region, before moving northward into Georgia, the Carolinas, and Tennessee. Most of the fatalities have been reported in North and South Carolina, where Helene landed as a tropical storm.
Recent reports indicate that at least 30 people have lost their lives, with many more still missing, in Buncombe County, North Carolina, home to the mountain city of Asheville. Nationwide, the hurricane has claimed at least 116 lives, leaving widespread devastation in its wake.
Pegula, who married her husband Taylor Gahagen in 2021 in Asheville, was heartbroken by the destruction. She expressed her sorrow on her X account (formerly Twitter), writing:
"Asheville always holds a special place in my heart because it’s where I got married. I can’t believe the devastation right now. So many people stranded and missing. I hope everyone is staying as safe as they possibly can. What are some ways we can help?!"
Jessica Pegula gives shout-out to husband Taylor Gahagen during US Open 2024
Jessica Pegula had an impressive run at the 2024 US Open, reaching her first Grand Slam final. However, her success was bittersweet, as she ultimately fell to Aryna Sabalenka, who secured her third Major in New York.
Pegula celebrated a heartfelt moment with her family after coming back from a set down to win her semifinal match against Karolina Muchova. Her father Terry, sister Kelly, brother Matthew, and husband Taylor were all there to support her.
During her on-court interview with Rennae Stubbs, the 30-year-old made sure to point out Taylor after the Aussie forgot to mention him.
"It's amazing," Jessica Pegula said. "I have my brother there, my sister there on the screen with my dad and my brother-in-law, lots of friends, lots of family all scattered around. Obviously, my husband, sorry I forgot about him. He is not even standing. He doesn't want to be seen."
She added:
"I have so much family here, and they have been watching a lot of my matches, so to still be here and have them still here supporting me is crazy. I am glad that they are able to share this moment with me."
Pegula is currently competing at the China Open, where she has advanced to the fourth round and will face Paula Badosa on October 1.