WATCH: Jessica Pegula’s coach ignores her while being on the phone after Dubai Open title win in hilarious celebration scenes

Jessica Pegula’s triumphant celebration after winning the 2026 Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships took a hilarious turn when her coach Mark Knowles completely ignored her while engrossed in a phone call.

Moments after defeating Elina Svitolina 6-2, 6-4 on February 21 to claim her first title of the year and 10th career crown, the world No. 5 eagerly jogged to her player’s box for a hug, only to stand waiting as Knowles remained oblivious, focused on his device. It took nearly a minute for Pegula to finally catch his attention, leading to laughter and a quick embrace once he looked up.

The amusing moment, captured on video and widely shared online, added a lighthearted twist to her dominant performance and early birthday joy.