Jessica Pegula destroys Carlos Alcaraz's picture on a cupcake, extends playful apology to Spaniard ahead of blockbuster exhibition event
Jessica Pegula has issued a hilarious apology to Carlos Alcaraz after ruining his picture on a cupcake. The two players are set to reunite during a blockbuster exhibition event at Madison Square Garden in New York on November 4.
Alcaraz and Pegula will join Emma Navarro and Ben Shelton for the highly anticipated Garden Cup, with the World No. 7 facing Navarro in an exciting all-American battle, followed by the Spaniard and Shelton's much-awaited showdown.
In the lead-up to the event, Jessica Pegula spent a day watching ice hockey at Madison Square Garden, attending the NHL game between the New York Rangers and the New Jersey Devils.
Pegula recently also shared a glimpse of herself biting into a cupcake that had Carlos Alcaraz's face on it, offering a playful apology to the 21-year-old.
"Sorry @carlitosalcarazz," Pegula posted on her Instagram story.
Both players are set to make a return to the tennis court after enjoying a well-deserved break during the off-season. Pegula spent some time attending Madison Keys' wedding to Bjorn Fratangelo, with her husband Taylor Gahagen making a rare public appearance by her side.
Alcaraz, meanwhile, vacationed with his family in the Dominican Republic, where he relaxed on a yacht and relished his time at the Punta Cana resort while taking time to throw balls for a local fan.
"It will be a great experience" - Carlos Alcaraz 'looking forward' to Garden Cup exhibition with Ben Shelton, Jessica Pegula and Emma Navarro
In a recent interview with New York Tennis Magazine, Carlos Alcaraz expressed excitement for the Garden Cup, sharing his anticipation for an "unforgettable" experience with Ben Shelton, Jessica Pegula, and Emma Navarro.
"I am looking forward to returning to New York on December 4 to play Ben at Madison Square Garden. Playing in front of the New York fans at The World's Most Famous Arena will be an unforgettable night. It will be a great experience," Alcaraz said.
Pegula also shared her enthusiasm for her match against Navarro, disclosing that it was a "dream come true" to compete at Madison Square Garden just months after contesting the US Open final.
"As a New York tennis player you dream of playing in the US Open final and playing at Madison Square Garden. To be able to do both in one year just shows dreams can come true. Really looking forward to coming back to New York and playing Emma in front of the best fans in the world," Jessica Pegula said.
Following his participation in the Garden Cup, Carlos Alcaraz will head to North Carolina for The Charlotte Invitational, where he is set to take on Frances Tiafoe. Madison Keys will square off against Sloane Stephens in the women's contest at the event.